Focused Modalities
INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING
I use several research-based theories for individual counseling: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). These theories provide practical skills that can help you gain a better understanding of yourself and help you learn how to handle difficult emotions. By reframing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, we can reduce emotional suffering.
Additionally, I offer EMDR therapy (see below)
COUPLES THERAPY
I use a blend of the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in order to de-escalate any disagreements and help couples start to understand their partner on a deeper level. Communication skills are particularly useful but often need to be learned and practiced. Past hurts need to be mended and cuts need to heal before trust and commitment can build a new foundation on which to move forward.
RELATIONSHIP COUNSELLING
Sometimes the early months of a relationship spark excitement and feelings of euphoria; however, sometimes these euphoric feelings give way to familiarity, and we start taking each other for granted. Relationship counseling promotes individual growth and awareness and works towards improved intimacy and deeper connection. Using the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) can help partners bring back the spark and give you new reasons to celebrate.
DEPRESSION
People struggling with depression are often battling negative thought patterns, low mood and sometimes behaviors that may include withdrawal, lack of energy and low motivation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) targets negative thought patterns. The premise of CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are influenced by each other. If we can change these negative thoughts, we can change how one feels and hence change some of the behaviors associated with depression. All three therapies: CBT, ACT and DBT have been shown to help with mood disorders such as depression.
ANXIETY
Dealing with anxiety can be a challenge for many and navigating GAD, SAD and OCD can feel like anxiety has the upper hand. There are many coping strategies available to help with anxiety. Research has shown that CBT can be as effective as medication (Source: APA Div. 12 (Society of Clinical Psychology))
I use a blend of CBT and ACT to help with anxiety both of which are research-based and proven to be effective for many people.
ADDICTION
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can affect mental and physical health, relationships, work, and quality of life. There are many factors that contribute to drug and alcohol use and addiction counseling can help a person explore these factors as well as discuss motivation to change the cycle of addiction.
EMDR
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. One component of EMDR is a technique called “bilateral stimulation” where a therapist will guide a client through eye movements, tones, or taps. However, EMDR is an entire integrated therapeutic approach that considers a person’s somatic (physical) and emotional states. EMDR was founded in 1987 by Francine Shapiro and is currently one of the most researched methods of contemporary psychotherapy. EMDR therapy has been empirically proven to be particularly effective in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as developmental trauma. EMDR relieves the symptoms of trauma by changing the way traumatic memories are stored (PTI, 2020)
STRESS & TRAUMA
It is estimated that 70% of adults will experience some form of traumatic event and 20% will go on to develop some form of trauma-related response. Trauma therapy can help you develop skills to help cope with the distressing symptoms associated with traumatic events.