OVERVIEW

 

My psychological orientation is humanistic-existential and cognitive-behavioral. I also blend in the secular philosophies of Zen and Existentialism (more info below). My style is pragmatic, eclectic, empathic, and informal. I focus on creating space to explore issues while utilizing evidenced-based holistic strategies. We’ll dive into your thoughts, feelings, and patterns with nonjudgmental empathy and acceptance. The loose structure of the work involves gaining awareness using mindfulness and reflection, making choices balancing logic and emotion, and noticing opportunities to practice everywhere in life. Working together can help you find peace and empowerment by accepting life’s uncertainties and actively crafting your own path.

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"You can't stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf."

Jon Kabot-Zinn

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MORE INFO

 

Existential philosophy helps you to confront and accept the inherent absurdity of existence without despair, create personal meaning and live authentically despite life’s unpredictability, and embrace freedom and responsibility in shaping your own life and finding purpose.  ​​​​​​​​​​

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By including Zen philosophy, in addition to managing your emotions and behaviors, you develop a deeper sense of acceptance in life. Instead of resisting negative thoughts, we observe these thoughts without judgment. Instead of forcing change, we learn to flow with change. Through Taosim, we focus on developing wu wei, roughly meaning 'effortless action'. This approach can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with worry, overthinking, frustration, and control issues. You can learn to adapt to life’s changes with a more relaxed and flexible mindset. ​​​​

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In more technical terms, the individualized work is heavily influenced by: Humanistic Psychology, Behaviorism, Trauma-Informed Care, Social Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology, and Psychodynamics. The work is enhanced with secular philosophies of Existentialism, Zen Buddhism, and Taoism. Additional research-based techniques I utilize include: 

Non-Directive (Rogerian) Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, 

Dialectical Behavioral Techniques, Communication Skills, Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques, and Mindfulness Training... all conversational.