Psychotherapy
My psychotherapy practice is rooted in psychodynamic theory and mindfulness practices. Psychodynamic theory offers a deep understanding of the mind and the unconscious forces that impact how we relate to the world. Mindfulness focuses our attention on our present moment experience while increasing our capacity to bear painful emotions. The integration of these approaches creates space for personal growth and healing through a new relationship to our experiences and a new understanding of how our mind makes sense of that experience.
Medication management
Psychiatric medications can be a powerful tool for relieving symptoms and can augment psychotherapy treatment for a more rapid improvement in functioning. If it is clinically indicated, I may recommend medication, and we will consider together whether this feels like the right choice for you. Because I believe that lasting change comes through self-understanding gained through exploring issues in therapy, I only provide medication treatment for people whom I see in weekly therapy.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness brings us into awareness of the present moment without judgment. It delivers us from our habitual thought patterns into the full experience of our lives. I weave the principles and practices of mindfulness into my therapeutic work with individuals. I am also available to teach mindfulness groups for college and graduate students.
Yoga Therapy
Yoga therapy combines the ancient tradition of yoga with modern understandings of neuroscience. It is a somatic therapy that uses physical movement (asana), breathing practices (pranayama) and meditation to improve physical and mental health. Yoga views mind and body as inseparable parts of the whole person. Mental suffering is held in the body, and addressing that suffering at the bodily level can help heal the mind. From a neuroscience perspective, yoga works, in part, through calming the nervous system and increasing resilience to stress. We can use tools of yoga, such as breathing practices, in traditional psychotherapy to help manage anxiety and overwhelming emotions. Additionally, I offer yoga therapy where sessions focus on self-discovery exclusively through yoga.
