My approach combines elements of self-psychology, interpersonal theory, mindfulness, feminist therapy, DBT, ACT and CBT techniques.

I believe that we all have a basic drive for growth and wholeness in connection with others.

• But sometimes events, circumstances, or experiences in our lives can derail us from this journey.

• As we struggle to make our way in the world, we may develop coping strategies--behaviors or patterns of relating to ourselves and  others--that, over time, can undermine this process. 
  

• All problematic behaviors develop because we were trying to do the best we could in a given circumstance.  They seemed to help, at least in the short run.
  

• But these behaviors may continue even though they are no longer useful or even themselves start to cause additional difficulties.  
  

• This can cloud our path and make it difficult to see where it leads.  We may even begin to doubt that it exists.
  

• When this happens, we may need help to reclaim our potential for growth and our joy in connection. 
  

I believe one of the most important steps in healing is understanding that our problematic thoughts, behaviors, and patterns of relationship developed because they were the best we knew how to do at the time.  We were trying, with all the resources we had available, to live the best life we could.

•   But now, these strategies no longer help us.  They hurt us.

• Therapy can help us develop new ways for meeting our emotional needs that are empowering and productive rather than disempowering and destructive.
  

• This entails a process of radical self-exploration that integrates body, mind, and psyche and works to reclaim a sense of personal authenticity. 
  

In my practice, I incorporate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and more traditional “talk therapy” techniques within a socio-cultural perspective to help my clients understand their present difficulties and open up new potentials for healing.

• My training and experience as an anthropologist informs my therapeutic practice in several ways.

• Because we are all social beings, our thoughts and behaviors are influenced not only by our families of origin, but also by the larger  social and cultural contexts in which we live.

• An essential part of the therapeutic process, then, is exploring the ways in which social and cultural attitudes (for example, about gender, achievement, dependence, control, and so forth) inform our emotional and interpersonal lives.

I understand my role as therapist as akin to that of midwife.

• I have specialized training and experience, but the power and potential for transformation and growth resides in each and every client.
  

• I believe that everyone is capable of change and that tremendous resiliency and strength reside in all of us.

• I consider it a privilege to facilitate my clients' journeys of self-discovery.
  

Contact me today for more information or to schedule an appointment.