Clinical Approach

My therapeutic approach is systemic and attachment-based. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, a large part of my philosophy hinges on the the way our biopsychosocial systems, such as family, school or work, and larger community, affect us. When I conceptualize an issue, I am curious not just about the individual or couple in front of me, but about the constellation of their whole system. A person also has systems within. I use an Internal Family Systems informed approach (often referred to as “parts’ work,” developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz), to uncover how the different states within you are relating to each other and may be using outdated templates that are keeping you stuck. This approach is powerful in helping you develop a new way of relating to yourself, not limited by rigid expectations or painful past experiences. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), often integrating it with an IFS informed approach, to help my clients heal from past trauma. EMDR allows people to experience change throughout their whole nervous system, allowing for more groundedness, presence, and joy.

In my work with couples, I use a combination of EFT (Emotionally-focused couples therapy), PACT (Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy) and Gottman modalities to improve connection, trust, and enhance the type of deep bond we desire with our partner. I incorporate experiential interventions in real time during our sessions to increase moments of joy, intimacy, and effective communication. I also use a solution focused approach that involves acquiring the necessary skills to move through conflict with greater ease and effectiveness. For couples with children, the work often involves helping partners learn to co-parent in ways that are developmentally attuned to their children and allow each member of the couple to stay true to themselves while aligned with the other. Lastly, I have advanced training working with couples in which there is a high degree of conflict. I am skilled at implementing specific interventions that first increase safety, followed by restoring intimacy and greater health in the relationship.