ALL of the 3 modalities I use share the same goal (to help the client), but have different concepts and approaches to get there. ALL of the modalities by themselves 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 & GOALS in 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 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 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.
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 unprocessessed 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.
What is Humanistic Therapy?
Humanistic/Person Centered Therapy focuses on both the unconscious & conscious mind and focuses on self-actualization. The therapist's unconditional postive regard, genuineness, and empathy are the main drivers of the therapy. The relationship provides a space for the client to finally feel fully accepted & understood.
The "ideal" self VS the "actualized" self are also explored; along with the obstacles between becoming who you truly are in the present moment and accepting yourself.
I meet you as a person. I work with you 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," I will help you find YOUR answers to your distress.
Each client is different and each therapeutic relationship is different.