Therapeutic Approach

My therapeutic foundation rests on humanistic and psychodynamic theory, and is influenced by family systems theory. In other words: the concerns we have in the present are often influenced by our past experiences and the nature of the connections we have had with others throughout our lifespan. With respect to your unique situation, I also use other methods, such as cognitive, transpersonal, and existential therapy to support your healing and in helping you to reach your goals with counseling. I am a Level II trained EMDR therapist, which is yet another method I practice when deemed appropriate and effective. 

EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

EMDR is a powerful method of therapy, originally used mostly for trauma and PTSD. Over time, and with more research, EMDR has been found to very effective for concerns such as: panic attacks, disturbing memories, phobias, stress reduction, dissociative disorders, sexual and/or physical abuse, and complicated grief.

Although we don’t know exactly how any form of psychotherapy works neuro-biologically or in the brain, we do know that when we experience a very disturbing event, our brain cannot process information as it usually does. One moment can become "frozen in time," and remembering what happened can feel as bad as it did going through it the first time, because the images, sounds, smells, and feelings haven’t changed. Memories like that have a lasting negative effect that may interfere with the way we see the world and the way we relate to other people.

EMDR seems to have a direct effect on the way that the brain processes information, and through the therapeutic process, reliving the images, sounds, and feelings originally experienced is no longer happening when the event is brought to mind. You still remember what happened, but it is less upsetting.

Counseling and psychotherapy can indeed help in identifying and understanding recurring patterns in your personal life and relationships; provide new tools to promote change; making conscious choices; offer healing, hope, and mindfulness to living a more satisfying and happier life. Your past and present difficulties do not have to control your mood, thoughts, and the choices you make every day for the rest of your life. As your therapist, I am committed to helping you see your problems and emotional experiences from a different perspective; to gain new coping skills; to find new meanings in the choices you have made, and to discover your resources, strength, and inner qualities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April, 2010