Methods for Transformation and Growth
A therapist is someone who knows how to hold a safe space, ideally having learned the territory by exploring it themselves. I lead this work, because I have done this work, not abstractly, not just from books, but in myself. I have had my commitment tested, and I have stayed when things were difficult, and I will do the same with you if you choose to work with me. I know the wonderful growth that can come from being present through adversity.
Driven by my own love of the subject, and passion for growing and learning, I have done many years of additional experiential trainings, well beyond the study required for a masters degree. Here are some videos featuring some of the methods I’ve been trained in. I deeply appreciate these methods, those who developed them, my teachers. I have integrated these methods into my approach and use them every day, because they are so effective.
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) – a profoundly gentle and accepting method that is remarkably effective for a wide variety of challenges.
Hakomi Experiential Therapy (HEP) – developed by Ron Kurtz, a very deep method that utilizies mindfulness in a focused and powerful way.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), developed by Sue Johnson, a brilliant couple therapy method that helps couples reach out for each other, and reduce and defuse the cycles that keep them apart.
The Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy – developed and developing by Stan Tatkin, an innovative integration of neuroscience and attachment theory, this method is effective in cutting to the root of many problems in couples, which may not be easily found just in the stories we tell verbally.
Process Experiential Therapy (PET) – developed by Les Greenberg, an amazingly clear articulation and understanding of emotional process, and how emotions form the central set of gears from which most of our thinking and action flows.
I am also deeply impacted by the extensive study I’ve done in the contemplative method of inquiry taught by the Ridhwan School, which i’ve studied for over thirteen years. Developed by A.H. Almaas, this method takes mindfulness to a very deep level, and allows exploration of very deep dimensions of the psyche, and beyond.
Extensive practice in another contemplative discipline, Vipassana, as taught by S. N. Goenka, and also as taught by Jack Kornfield, is a body of understanding which I tap very directly for helping me to support clients in building mindfulness and compassion of their moment to moment experience.
Being open, having an open, caring heart and a curious mind – these set the foundation for healthy movement in your life. Spending time in a place where you are supported, saturated in these qualities helps develop a totally different experience of life. It can lead to a new and satisfying world. What is a therapist? A therapist is someone who knows about this process through experience, and has spent time practicing with facilitating that change in others. A therapist is someone who, because they have learned about themselves, can help you to know yourself as well.
