Feminist Theory
I practice from a feminist theoretical orientation, which exists to empower people of all genders. I value this orientation because I believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives, and I happen to have some expertise in techniques to guide and help my clients find their way to achieve their goals and/or engage in self-exploration. Feminist theory also believes that the number one reason therapy works is from the strength of the therapist-client relationship, which is built and grows from working collaboratively, having trust, and empowering you, the client. Another facet of this theory is best described by the phrase, "personal is political," which acknowledges that what happens in the world, both on small and large scales, can and does affect you. Essentially, this phrase emphasizes how a person's culture, gender roles, and societal systems impact their life. I believe those are all significant factors to bring into therapy for my clients because having an increased awareness of how the world influences your perspective and experiences can be fundamental to your personal growth.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
I am trained as an EMDR therapist. EMDR is an amazingly effective type of therapy, especially if you feel like talk therapy hasn't helped you or been enough to address and resolve your concerns. If you feel frustrated and "stuck" that certain events from your past hold a strong, negative, and even debilitating power over you, I strongly recommend this treatment. We explore your past and identify how it affects your present-life, and then we can reprocess your past to empower you in the present instead of debilitate you. Click here for an infographic to help explain what EMDR is. Also, here are a couple of videos: EMDRIA explaining EMDR therapy
Sand Tray
This technique takes advantage of expressing yourself with a different part of your brain, which can help you address topics that you may dismiss or minimize, but are actually having an impact on your life. Also, this can be a way to help you "talk" about an issue that you either believe there are no words to describe it, or it is too difficult to physically talk about.
Expressive Arts
Through the power of art, we can explore and address your issues at a deeper level than talk therapy alone can achieve at times. Because art expression uses a different area in your brain, what you draw on paper can become a voice for your unconscious wants, needs, and fears.