Better Now
Therapy
Each of the four modalities that I use share the same goal (to help you, the client), but have different concepts and approaches to get there. Each of the modalities also have their limitations, which is why I use an eclectic/mixture of modalities. The mixture of modalities that I use for each client is dependent on the level of appropriateness and client's own wishes and goals for their therapy.
I am always trauma-informed, which is an approach to therapy. Trauma-informed means that I understand & recognize how trauma affects one's life. Re-establishing safety, identifying triggers, & processing the trauma with the therapist are three main intentions of trauma-focused therapy.
I also always practice in an anti-oppressive, intersectional lens—bringing awareness to power, privilege, & positionality. I am always mindful of deconstructing systems of oppression.
I do not give advice, tell you what to do, or generalize your experience with reductionist statements. I am not a life coach. I honor your unique and complex inner world!
Therapy Modalities Used
What is Psychodynamic Therapy?
This form of therapy focuses on bringing light to the unconscious. It explores what you may be in denial about or repressing, and unprocessed memories.
It also explores the repetitive unhealthy patterns in your life (from childhood to present). It looks at your defense mechanisms & past traumas that have created fragments of the self. It is also about the relationship with your therapist, and how it mirrors or doesn't mirror the relationships you have outside of therapy. We explore your attachment style, core beliefs, values, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
What is Somatic Psychotherapy?
Somatic psychotherapy centers around grounding individuals' physiological responses of unpleasant feelings like anxiety, stress, or trauma. It focuses on recognizing bodily sensations and regulating ones' distressing physical sensations. It is a sensation-based treatment.
Trauma, stress, and anxiety can overwhelm the body and nervous system. Somatic psychotherapy is about processing these unpleasant sensations with intention and mindfulness, before rational processing. I will help you build your "toolbox" of soothing "resources" to help you "down" or "up" regulate your emotions and sensations.
What is Humanistic/Existential Therapy?
Humanistic/existential therapy focuses on the conscious mind and self-actualization; as well allowing and accepting your emotions without judgement; as well as finding meaning and purpose in life. The therapeutic relationship also provides a space for the client to feel fully accepted & understood; which can lead to self-acceptance and self-compassion.
The "ideal" self VS the "actualized" self are also explored; along with the emotions and thoughts associated with the discrepancies.
Lastly, death anxiety and existential loneliness may also be explored.
I meet you as a person. I work with what you choose to reveal. The therapy is centered around you and understanding your experience and inner world. I do not have the "answers," There are no "cook-book" or textbook answers. I will help you find YOUR answers to your distress, while offering non-judgmental support and acceptance.