“Therapy isn’t about trying to throw ourselves away and become something better. It’s about befriending who we already are.”

- Adapted from Pema Chodron

 

Some questions or statements you may be asking yourself…

  • Will I ever feel normal again?

  • Everyone keeps telling me that I should be over the death of my loved one. I don’t think I ever will.

  • I’m scared to leave my house.

  • I can’t even seem to engage in my day to day routine.

  • I am so lonely and scared all the time.

  • I feel like I’m having a heart attack/can’t breathe.

Together, we will address and reduce your suffering through the use of a safe space and evidence based practices.

Theoretical Approaches used in My Practice:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)/Flash Technique

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Mindfulness Practice/Urban Zen Integrative Therapy (UZIT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Mindfulness by definition means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally. To be mindful is to be courageous. It can be frightening to close our eyes and turn to our being and look within. Yet, when we do turn to our bodies with love, we feel less lonely and isolated.

I utilize mindfulness as a means of encouraging the mind/body connection and to assist those to stay in the present and focus on solutions.

Mindfulness practice can be tailored to people of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and faith systems. The use of mindfulness is highly successful in addressing Addiction, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Chronic Pain, Insomnia/Sleep Disorders, Nausea, Self-Esteem and Trauma.

I have been meditating and practicing mindfulness for over 25 years. In addition to my personal knowledge, I am certified in Urban Zen Integrative Therapy and intertwine Yoga Therapy, Essential Oil Therapy, Reiki (level 2 practitioner), Meditation and Contemplative Care as deemed appropriate.

Mindfulness Practice

CBT is the most widely-used and effective treatment for Anxiety Disorders and Depression. Some say that it is as effective as antidepressants for many types of Depression.

I use this form of psychotherapy to focus on how a person’s thoughts, attitudes and beliefs contributes to dysfunctional emotions, behaviors and cognitions. I treat the identified destructive pattern by boosting happiness and employing strategies to challenge and overcome them.

CBT is appropriate for people of all ages and can benefit Major Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Eating Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Chronic Medical Illnesses, Grief, Loss and Bereavement.

I have been using CBT as a foundation in my clinical practice for over 20 years with supplemental practices to enhance everyone’s individual needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

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Originally created to address the needs of chronically suicidal patients, DBT uses many of the elements found in CBT and Mindfulness Practices. Used as an evidence supported means of treating those suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), it is seen as the gold standard for treating more difficult mental health disorders.

I have adapted the use of DBT to enhance the capabilities and motivation to do the very best we can. Through the supplement of DBT practices we can work together on securing a foundation of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

I prefer to utilize a holistic and comprehensive approach to relationships (with ourselves and others) and social roles. Sometimes our most challenging times are dealing with ourselves within the context of our relationships.

The ultimate goal is to develop strong coping skills to enhance communication and validate you in the process. It is very important that you feel supported in the process and provided with a safe place to process feelings of grief and loss, strengthen problem-solving, and reduce self-harm/destructive and/or hostile behaviors.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

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The element of change is not changing who you are, it’s connection; we are all perfectly imperfect.

I know that you are here because you want to explore change to some degree. Whatever that may look like to you, is how I plan to support you.

You are the expert on you. I am the one who will provide you with reflective listening, compassion and a non judgmental forum.

I am incredibly excited to start this journey with you. Reach out to me anytime!