My Approach
I can help by fostering a judgment-free relationship, where no feelings, thoughts, or behaviors are too messy to explore. I specialize in relational and psychodynamic work, which not only addresses symptoms, but also a client's broader sense of self. No matter the issue, I always maintain my social justice lens.
When working with clients focused on eating disorder treatment, I integrate cognitive and behavioral approaches (e.g. CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and food exposures) as appropriate. I also consult with Dr. Marcella Raimondo, PhD, who has extensive experience working with eating disorders using a social justice lens.
Relational
I believe as we relate to one another, we grow together. This is why I focus on building therapy relationships that are non-judgmental and that welcome messiness. During sessions, I am authentically myself (e.g. expressive, dark-humored), encouraging clients to do the same. I also allow clients to lead the way, while I track how the material they bring to sessions connects with larger patterns and with our goals.
Psychodynamic
I believe that clients’ feelings, thoughts, and behaviors exist for unconscious and self-protective reasons. For example, a client who cuts may be unknowingly protecting themselves from an emotional flood by controlling their own physical pain. As clients understand such patterns, they can increase their self-compassion and decrease their shame, making room to develop new coping skills.
Social Justice Lens
My therapy approach is grounded in systems-based thinking, which focuses on how clients are impacted by their family, community, and broader social systems (e.g. institutionalized racism). I try to acknowledge my various privileges, and to ally with those who experience systemic inequity. I am particularly passionate about helping to dismantle diet culture and anti-fatness, which is reflected in my integration of Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size frameworks in client work.
