Philosophy

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Therapy with me is informed by a blend of different theories and approaches as I understand that clients present with a wide range of life experiences, challenges, and symptoms. What works for one person may not work for another. That’s why I integrate multiple modalities, tailoring therapy to fit your unique needs, comfort level, and preferences. Whether we are exploring trauma or navigating complex emotions, the work we do together will be customized to resonate with you and support your path to healing. Together, these lenses ensure that our work is not only thorough but also deeply attuned to your unique needs, supporting healing on all levels—physical, emotional, and psychological. Most importantly, I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is the cornerstone of effective therapy. A felt sense of safety, trust, and rapport are not just important—they are essential. 

In my practice, the way I conceptualize treatment is rooted in a trauma-informed, humanistic, feminist, systemic, attachment-based, and physiological perspective. These lenses are crucial because they allow me to see each client as a whole person, deeply connected to their past experiences, relationships, and the broader societal context. A trauma-informed approach ensures that we proceed with care, acknowledging the profound impact of trauma on the mind and body, while a humanistic focus honors the unique potential for growth and self-actualization within each individual. I integrate a feminist and systemic lens to create a space that acknowledges and challenges the social and cultural forces that shape our experiences, particularly for those who have been marginalized or silenced. This approach to therapy is about understanding the ways in which power dynamics, societal expectations, and systemic inequalities impact mental health and well-being. A systemic lens helps me to explore the ways in which family, community, and cultural systems shape your experience, and to recognize and address the power dynamics and societal structures that may contribute to your struggles. 

An attachment-based approach emphasizes the importance of early relationships in forming the foundation of your emotional well-being. The attachment-based perspective is central to my therapeutic approach because early relationships, especially those with primary caregivers, are pivotal in shaping how we relate to ourselves and others throughout life. These formative relationships influence our ability to trust, feel safe, and connect emotionally with others. They also play a significant role in how we manage stress, regulate emotions, and establish a sense of self-worth. When early attachment experiences are secure, they provide a foundation of stability and confidence that supports healthy emotional development. However, if these early bonds were inconsistent, neglectful, or harmful, they can leave lasting imprints that manifest as difficulties in relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulation later in life. Understanding and addressing these attachment patterns in therapy can be transformative, allowing us to heal old wounds, develop healthier relationships, and cultivate a more compassionate relationship with ourselves.

A key perspective I integrate is the physiological lens, which highlights the deep connection between the mind and body. This approach recognizes that our emotional and psychological experiences are intricately connected to our physical state, and by paying attention to the body’s responses, we can gain valuable insights into areas of distress and pathways to healing. One of the foundational elements of this lens is Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges. Polyvagal Theory offers a profound understanding of how our autonomic nervous system influences our emotional and physiological responses to stress and trauma. This theory emphasizes the role of the vagus nerve in regulating our body’s responses to safety and danger, explaining how our physiological state directly affects our emotional and social experiences.

According to Polyvagal Theory, our autonomic nervous system operates on a hierarchy, with responses ranging from safety and social engagement to mobilization (fight-or-flight) and immobilization (freeze). Understanding this hierarchy is crucial for addressing the root causes of trauma-related symptoms and improving emotional well-being. Trauma and chronic stress can disrupt the normal functioning of this system, leading to symptoms like anxiety, dissociation, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. In therapy, I use Polyvagal Theory as a framework to help you understand how your body’s responses are intricately linked to your emotional experiences. By focusing on techniques that promote safety we can work together to recalibrate your nervous system. This process helps to enhance emotional resilience and creates a greater sense of nervous system flexibility.