Therapists in 98148

My belief is that we are all human trying to learn and grow in an ever changing environment. Change for some can be difficult to cope with and result in maladaptive coping skills and other mental health concerns when emotions overwhelm us. I believe that the therapy relationship should always be collaborative and I approach every individual differently to meet their needs with where they are in life. In the therapy process we will assess your different environments and relationships to help understand your current barriers you are seeking help with.

I am a collaborative, directive, and supportive therapist, who can help you find new ways of thinking about life problems in a supportive and safe environment. My goal is to build trust and collaborate with you if you are dealing with problems related to anxiety, depression, relational issues, and other life challenges and transitions.

I approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model. I view every individual/family/couple as unique, utilizing methods and techniques best-suited for each situation. My experience includes many areas, all pertaining to individuals, couples and families. I am passionate in working with women, teens, couples and the LGBTQ community. I was trained in Family Systems Therapy; I approach therapy work holistically, focusing on the individual and extending beyond, to the interactions between family members and significant others. I work with clients to help them recognize how extended family, culture, and society may impact them as individuals.

My practice is focused on the resolution of trauma using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which effectively and efficiently treats trauma. Trauma can be a single event such as a car accident or sexual assault, or could be more complicated, involving childhood trauma. Memories of these events can cause big feelings to erupt, avoidance of similar situations, nightmares, and even flashbacks that make it feel like the event is still happening to you. Below is a simple, animated description of how EMDR works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKrfH43srg8

Ever think: "How did I end up here?" or "I never imagined {life event} would happen to me!" You are not alone! We can all relate to these sentiments. Most people do not end up in therapy because circumstances are unicorns and rainbows. Are you struggling with loss, or making meaning out of events that have left you feeling uncertain, shaken, in agony? Do you feel like you are starring in a scene from the film Ground Hog Day, where life is a series of frustrating, repeating events? You can make a successful transition to break this cycle, whatever that personal change is. You will get a sense of control back. A little Zen. Some hope.

I believe, that although we sometimes through no fault of our own fall onto difficult times and challenges, we are all special and have something to offer this world. Sometimes we just need a helping hand, to get back to that point where we can deal with our challenges in a healthier way and outlook.

I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.

Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts that compel unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it. Because our practice is growing we do have some openings.

You and I, together, will develop a therapeutic relationship ideal for producing change and growth. Rooted in trust, honesty, and transparency, my goal is to create a safe space for you to think & feel out loud! Self-exploration here will garner solutions to your concerns. We'll ensure you gain a better understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Proceeding increased insight & understanding, behavioral techniques will be incorporated to help you make specific, measurable changes in your actions. We'll cultivate mindfulness and positivity that'll allow you to coexist with, not fight against, your life circumstances.

My professional experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families who have sought help with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, behavioral issues, difficulty with emotion regulation and emotional expression, social deficits, issues related to educational or occupational functioning, relationship issues and difficulty communicating. I work from a LGBTQ+ affirming, racially equitable and feminist framework to provide clients with the support they need and deserve.

Everyone goes through difficult times and needs a little additional support sometimes. I am interested in assisting you in finding ways to meet your personal goals. This is a collaborative, confidential process that can involve learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, increasing motivation for change, working through past trauma or feelings of grief, starting recovery for an addiction, or any of numerous other therapeutic goals. I have been working as a mental health therapist since 2000, and I find it very rewarding to be able to help others enrich their lives.

Accepting new couples. Waitlist available for individual therapy. Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, lonely or not good enough? Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, parenting stress, relationship issues or body image, you can feel better. The more we realize our power and our right to set boundaries, value ourselves and choose the path of our life, the more happiness we cultivate.

I can help you find solutions to persistent problems like: panic attacks, not being able to say no, struggling with your children,, excessive worrying or unresolved grief & loss. I am committed to working with children & teens as well as adults. I am told that I am easy to talk to, warm, validating & practical. You are tired of banging up against the same wall, the same problem. Working with me is collaborative. WE work as a team. We focus on your strengths and needs. You are ready to put in the effort and take action to change.