Compassion.  My experiences have been rich and varied and not always easy, and the main thing they’ve taught me is, “People do well when they can.”  The systemic approach to therapy acknowledges the countless ways we are affected by our many environments — internal, familial, cultural, physical, societal, economic, political, etc.  What we can do together is lovingly inquire about what is changeable and then go about supporting that change with deep trust in each person’s innate wisdom and wholeness.

Curiosity. Staying curious is perhaps the most valuable asset in healing work. When we can stay curious about what’s happening within us and within one another, we’re open rather than judgmental. My own curiosity has led me down oh-so-many healing paths, so I can offer you the benefit of that experience. More important, though, I’ll stay curious about what you’re feeling, thinking, experiencing, and desiring — and I’ll encourage you to stay curious, too.

Creativity. I’ve never believed in one-size-fits-all, and I love having many therapeutic tools at my fingertips, from evidence-based modalities like Internal Family Systems and EMDR, to walks in the woods, to art and movement, to journaling and poetry.  Working with my own issues and with clients who’ve experienced trauma has cracked my heart open to the sadness of the world. It’s also opened my eyes to the amazing resiliency, flexibility, grit, and innovation people develop as they grow through difficulty.  I celebrate the fact that there is endless creative possibility for transformation. We will find your way!

Play.  I like it when clients have fun! Therapy sessions are not dreary and dutiful; they’re vibrant and interesting.  I enjoy my clients, and I work hard to make sure they can relax and be themselves in our sessions. Besides, play has been shown to have neurological benefits that stimulate creativity and release endorphins, so why not tap into that?

Respect.  After all, your humanity is completely and utterly original, and that feels sacred to me.  I don’t tell you what to do, but I do persist in hearing what it is you really want to do… and feel… and believe.  I’m not pushy; I trust your system to move at the pace that’s best for you.  But I am relentless in holding your vision and reminding you of the treasures you hold inside.

Presence.  I don’t like to be rushed, and I don’t like to multi-task, so I created a practice where I can give each client my full and undivided attention.  I take excellent care of myself so that when we’re together, I’m thinking of nothing but you and what you’re sharing.