My Approach To Psychotherapy

I use systemic approach to my work with the clients. This perspective recognizes the impact of systemic racism, homophobia, patriarchy, ableism, and other societal/cultural oppressive mechanisms on an individual's psyche. I am striving for my practice to be anti-racist, LGBTQ+-affirming, and neuro-affirming. Towards meeting this goal, I continue examining my own believes and practices. I also pursue continuing professional education on the impact of systemic oppression on mental health and ways to work with it. 
My main approach to clinical work is  Internal Family Systems (IFS).  Throughout my career as a mental health professional I have studied  multiple other approaches, such as Interpersonal, Gestalt, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based , and EMDR. I integrate some elemetns of those approaches at times as I find appropriate. Additionally, I utilize simple mind-body practices from Yoga tradition as needed to help client stay present and connected to themselves in therapy.

What does it all mean for you as a client? It means that:

  • I will pay attention to you as a whole person with thoughts, feelings, spiritual beliefs, body sensations, and past memories, who grew up in a specific culture and family and was affected by all kinds of different life events and relationships with others. I will also use my knowledge of culture and systemic oppression to help you understand some of the more hidden factors that might have contributed to your struggles. Also, I will listen and understand before offering feedback and recommendations.
  • In therapy with me you can expect to be treated with dignity, respect, and kindness and to be viewed as an equal partner. You bring expertise on yourself and I bring expertise on psychological health and struggles to the table. Therapy is a collaborative journey. Together we can work on helping you improve your life and reach your goals.
  • You will NOT experience a distancing clinical stance with me. I know that we all need help at one time or another during our lives. I have sought psychotherapy myself throughout different stages of my life, and I can appreciate what it is like to be in client’s shoes.
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