Areas of Expertise
Grief/Loss
I believe so much of what ails us--our worries and sadness, feelings of shame and inadequacy, addictions, pain and suffering comes from some form of loss. These feelings of loss might be from the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship; the loss of health, identity, or feeling purposeful; the loss of never having felt loved or seen as a child; the loss of a dream never realized. These losses are plentiful, pile up and overwhelm our capacity to cope. We often shoulder these losses and this grief alone, fearing judgment or being misunderstood. Through presence and compassion, I will bear witness to your grief to help you find healing, turn pain into purpose, and reclaim joy.
Relational Skills
Relationships are challenging and sometimes contentious, yet we rely on them to survive and thrive--they are essential for our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. I can assist you in identifying and eliminating some of the subtle yet powerful barriers that keep you from experiencing deep and meaningful connection. Whether it's support with healthy boundary setting, work on increased emotional regulation, or practice in more effective communication and conflict resolution, I can help you develop skills to cultivate the healthy and rewarding relationships you desire. Using a strengths-based, gender affirming approach, I excel at empowering all individuals, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.
Humanistic Therapy
In my estimation, a life in which one feels purposeful, and lives authentically is a life well lived. It's my intention to support you on your journey of self-exploration so that you may live your best life. Core wounds and self-limiting beliefs frequently affect your ability to connect with self and find that which is meaningful and authentic. Through compassionate inquiry and gentle guidance, I can help you develop deeper insight into who you really are, or who you really want to be. I can champion you into accessing and embracing the best parts of you, while encouraging you to nurture compassion and acceptance for the wounded parts. With increased self-awareness and self-acceptance, you will feel freer to connect more meaningfully with your purpose, your authentic self--thus your life.
My Approach
I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the cornerstone of healing and personal development; therefore, I foster a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgmental therapeutic alliance. My relational approach is laid back and authentic. I bring presence, warmth, and a deep empathic attunement into our sessions. I believe humor can heal and encourage resilience, so expect some levity and laugher to be woven into our work.
I know that every client is unique, so I am committed to meeting you where you are/tailoring your therapy experience to meet your needs. My primary focus is supportive Psychotherapy- "talk therapy." I regularly draw from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy.
I also incorporate mindfulness and mind-body techniques into my practice. I'm convinced that regular use of these principles/practices can be transformative, helping one to more fully and joyfully inhabit their life.
"Perhaps the purpose of our life is to fully live...to touch each here and now moment with our presence...And to do whatever we can to help others, to hold them when they are hurting, to listen carefully to their stories, and the way they are attempting to make sense of a world that has gone a bit mad. To speak kind words and not forget the erupting miracle of the other as it appears before us. Perhaps this is the most radical gift we can all give."
~Matt Licata
