Approaches
My approach is informed by developmental transformations, object relations theory, attachment theory, and cognitive behavioral/ dialectical behavior therapy.
What is developmental transformations?
We don’t privilege talking. In developmental transformations, we privilege embodied expression in whatever form that comes. It could be movement, dramatic action, or of course, talk; but it’s at all times a relational approach, and the heart of it is playfulness.
Here's an example:
I had a kid come into a therapy session, and since there were no chairs, he sits down on the floor and says “Don’t you ever fucking ask me how I feel.” He was 15. I proceeded to whisper mischievously, “I’m about to ask you how you feel.” He gave me the “go fuck yourself” look. In my lowest Darth Vadar voice, I pulled out an imaginary light saber and said, “How do you feeel?” He immediately got it, pulled out his light saber, and we fought for 15 minutes. I quickly found out how he felt.
How does DvT help me?
Engaging in Dvt therapy will provide you with a way to emotionally regulate, discover new ways of being, find your voice, and find relief from personal suffering. Of course, this is based on us developing a therapeutic relationship founded on trust and serious playfulness.
What is attachment theory?
My work — from an attachment theory perspective — is based on the idea that all people seek comfort and adventure. I find this useful in all my work with parents, couples, teens, and children.
With teens, this approach helps emotional regulation, establishes their relationship with me, shows them how to playfully act in (instead of acting out). For some teens, this approach helps them find their voice and agency. For other teens, my work helps them learn to accept limits.
What is Cognitive Behavioral / Dialectical Behavioral Therapy?
I have training in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and use these when appropriate. CBT can be very helpful to break behavioral and cognitive patterns. DBT is found to be helpful with emotional regulation.