my approach
I believe counseling is a relationship where one should feel safe enough to be vulnerable and share personal difficulties and concerns. This is important because it is mainly within a safe relationship that people can start to make sense of presenting issues, which often begins the process of getting “unstuck” —moving one forward into a place of healing.
We are not created to thrive in isolation—we need each other in order to weather the storms of life.
It is “in” relationship and “through” relationships that we grow, find joy and meaning, and create a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Over the last eight years I have done extensive professional training in Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), as well as, Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)—which is statistically proven to be the most effective model for facilitating change and healing in relationships. The treatment model is based on the basic human need for attachment with others. It is all about creating connection and finding safety in our relationships.
I have also been trained to use an integrated approach to therapy blending psychology as it relates to God’s truth, promoting healing in body, soul, and spirit, which is my passion. I feel privileged to be a part of the Lord’s healing work but will also honor both where you are and where you want to be.
My life experiences—including a multi-decade marriage and 3 grown children—have influenced my work through my own joys and sorrows. I am acquainted with grief and loss in many forms and also know the power of family, friendships, community, faith, and belonging. I will honor where you are and where you want to heal and grow. I have done a good amount of work in the areas of loss and grief, anxiety or fears, emotion regulation and attachment theory, trauma, coping skills, codependency, boundaries, depression, infertility, adoption, self esteem and, of course, relational distress.
Brene Brown, a researcher and best selling author has said, “Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in. Somehow we’ve come to equate success with not needing anyone. Many of us are willing to extend a helping hand, but we’re very reluctant to reach out for help when we need it ourselves.”