WORLDVIEW

It is important you are aware that I am strongly rooted in Christian beliefs and this faith system informs every aspect of my worldview.  If you report that you are a Christian, I will use our mutual belief system to inform therapy. If you report you embrace a different faith system, I will do my best to support you and incorporate any aspects of this system of which I am aware, and which you agree would be useful.

If you are not a Christian, and would still like to enter into a therapeutic relationship, I will not overtly nor will I intend to inadvertently, influence you to adopt my beliefs- or any other system of faith. Even so, it is possible differing worldviews could form an incongruence in our work together and a conflict in values may form. If this occurs, it may be best that our work end, in which case I am willing to make referrals to other providers. I cannot guarantee a provider more suitable to your belief system will be available.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

My approach to counseling is empathic and relational, trauma-informed and goal-oriented.  Therapy is proven to be most effective when an empathic relationship is established. My passion for counseling is developing this sort of relationship. I encourage clients to be as open and honest as they are able, offering a safe and private environment to cultivate authenticity. Especially in times of crisis, it is important for therapy to uncover skills clients can use quickly. Session time may be spent developing a set of strategies the client may use to cope with difficult symptoms or circumstances. Sessions may also be less prescriptive, with ample space to process one’s story. I embrace clients as they explore the deep areas of trauma, shame and damaged or under-developed self-concept.

My work is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I also integrate elements of Exposure Response Prevention, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and many others.