My approach

I I have been trained and use the following therapeutic models:

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) isempowers individuals to live more fully in the present moment, guided by their values and committed to taking meaningful action despite internal struggles. Living in alignment with our values is essential for fulfillment and well-being and contributes to a more harmonious relationships. By consciously aligning our actions with our values, we can cultivate a life that is rich in purpose, authenticity, and joy.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

Cognitive Processing Therapy (modified) focuses on repairing the damage done by a traumatic event to someone’s beliefs about themselves and the world. These thoughts tend to lead to negative emotions -fear, anxiety, guilt, and anger - that can halt recovery from trauma/PTSD, depression and addiction. CPT focuses on teaching a set of skills that will help you challenge these negative thoughts.

I use a modified-CPT that does not require writing/talking about specifics of the trauma. Instead, you will be invited to explore how you have been impacted, specifically in the areas: safety, trust, control, self-esteem, and intimacy.

After significant experiences, you may notice that you think very differently about yourself or your environment than you did prior to the trauma. By offering specific cognitive restructuring skills, CPT teaches you to challenge these negative thoughts and interpretations (known as stuck points), gain a healthier perspective about the experience or trauma, cope better with future trauma, and move forward with your live.

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which suggests that traumatic experiences can overwhelm the brain's natural processing mechanisms, leading to the development of symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. EMDR aims to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories so that they can be integrated into existing memory networks and no longer trigger distressing symptoms. EMDR has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other trauma-related conditions. It is also used to address a wide range of issues, including grief, performance, substance abuse, and attachment disorders. EMDR offers a structured and evidence-based approach to trauma therapy that helps you to process and integrate traumatic memories, reduces distressing symptoms, and restores a sense of safety and well-being.

Polyvagal Informed Therapy

Polyvagal Theory provides a framework for understanding how stress impacts the body and mind. Cultivating awareness of the mind-body connection, Polyvagal informed therapy enables healing through safety, regulation, and fostering resilience. You can learn to regulate your autonomic nervous system and reduce the experience of stress, unhealthy coping behaviors and trauma-related symptoms. I use polyvagal informed therapy because it provides a helpful window into your innate wisdom, guiding you towards a sense of purpose and well-being through the principles of safety, connection and positive psychology.

SMART: self management and recovery training

SMART Recovery (Self-Management And Recovery Training) is an evidence-based approache that individuals can use to address mental health and addiction issues. SMART Recovery is a self-help program that focuses on teaching practical skills for managing addictive behaviors. It incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), and motivational interviewing to helps you change harmful habits and develop healthier coping strategies.SMART Recovery focuses on building motivation, coping with urges, managing behaviors and emotions, and living a balanced life.

Recovery is a lifestyle that extends beyond mere abstinence to encompass holistic well-being and positive life changes. SMART Recovery complements traditional 12 step recovery programs and can be used with harm reduction strategies. Utilizing a combination of evidenced based, cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational enhancement strategies, and mindfulness practices, you will cultivate the skills and mindset necessary for lasting change

HOW it all works together in therapy?

Honesty, open, willing - the HOW of therapy refers to you and your attitude. By embodying the principles of honesty, openness, and willingness in therapy, clients can create a supportive and empowering environment for their own growth and transformation. Together with the guidance and support of the therapist, they can cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment on their journey towards health and well-being.

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