I believe in actively listening.  I work to understand each individual’s unique set of goals for happiness and peace.  Using various psychotherapy theoretical models including family systems, interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, self-compassion, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness I work with each individual to jointly identify which path to pursue to resolve concerns. 

I believe in creating a safe, trusting, comfortable environment for clients.  I have been described by former clients and students as kind, warm, non-judgmental, engaging, and empathic.   

I believe in helping to identify and build upon existing strengths to create the life that one would like to live and experience. 

I believe in meeting each individual where he or she is at.  This could mean longer-term exploration of the origins of the unhappiness or distress and developing understanding and insight.  Or this could mean brief, solution-focused psychotherapy that addresses the present distress and jointly discover ways to decrease the feelings of unhappiness. 

I believe in learning from my clients his or her own unique set of experiences , cultural background, and beliefs.  I work to understand the norms, beliefs, customs of the unique culture an individual identifies with to provide culturally sensitive interventions that feel comfortable or a match with an individual, couple or family’s beliefs.  

Finally, I believe in collaborating with my clients and empowering them with the tools they need to live the life they desire.