Existing in this world can be overwhelming and lonely. We may use distractions (overwork, over-exercise, "staying busy," drinking/drugs, sex, perfectionism, jumping from job to job or relationship to relationship, dissociation) to numb our pain or anxiety. We may have developed these behaviors long ago as survival mechanisms to help us get by. As we age into adulthood, some of our survival mechanisms, like a rock in a shoe, eventually become obstacles and create pain for us and those around us.

Eventually we may reach a point where we want things to change. We decide we want to feel better or stop behaving in ways that harm us. We might try unsuccessfully to solve things ourselves before accepting we need help.

Therapy is a process of developing self-compassion through understanding how you became who you are, getting clear about where you want to go, and challenging yourself to try new approaches to get there. Far from being selfish or self-indulgent, seeking therapy is a generous act toward yourself, those around you, and the world.

Individual Therapy. We do not exist in a vacuum. How we feel about ourselves and others was shaped by our earliest relationships. And today in therapy it is in relationship that we learn to see ourselves more clearly. In individual therapy you and I will work to create a relationship that feels safe and secure for you to get vulnerable and grow. We will explore your symptoms together, and I will suggest a targeted treatment plan. Then, with warmth, honest feedback, and a touch of humor we will set about on the path toward change together.

Group Therapy. Most of my individual clients eventually continue on to group therapy. Group therapy is an evidence-based treatment modality effective for treating issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, people-pleasing, codependence, dysfunctional family system dynamics, maintaining addiction recovery, relationship or sexual challenges, etc. Group therapy is not a “support group”- it is more of a practical laboratory where you try out new behaviors and learn about yourself by giving and receiving earnest feedback in real-time relationships with fellow group members. Group helps you reshape your conception of yourself, provides you with co-travelers along your therapy journey, and offers practical insight and tools to help you make the changes you want.