Philosophy
Mental health for all
I view mental health as part of our standard health care. And, just like physical health, mental health can always be improved. Also, similar to having regular medical check-ups, therapy can function as “preventative care,” to keep us from straying too far from our desired path.
The mind is the body
We are one system and so I believe that emotions and thoughts can't be addressed without also addressing physiological responses, and vice versa. Changing our bodily responses can impact our thoughts and emotions just as changing our emotions and thoughts can impact our bodily responses.
Who we are is defined by how we live
I consider myself a “behaviorist.” I focus on how thoughts, emotions, and motivations can manifest in someone’s life through action. If someone were to observe our lives from the outside, what would he or she say about who we are and how we live?
If it is not valuable, do not bother
Knowing what is important to us can give us direction in life. If we have that compass, our goals can naturally fall into place. And with strong values, we will have no shortage of passion to act on those goals.
All emotions are helpful
Emotions naturally occur. We can’t prevent them or will them into being, but we can control how we respond to them. Trying in vain to push emotions out will only leave us directionless, numb, and exhausted. What if instead we channeled that energy into pursuing a fulfilling and meaningful life, knowing that life will contain beauty and sadness, struggles and triumphs, and joy and fear.
Follow the science
I believe in evidence-based therapies but do not ascribe to just one therapy model. Instead I look for a match. How can I deliver the most appropriate treatment in the most effective way to serve the unique individual in front of me.
Therapy
Every day I feel honored to be brought into people’s lives, to explore their vulnerabilities and strengths, to be entrusted. I see this as a privilege and responsibility, and I do not take this role lightly. My aim is to create a safe, respectful, accepting environment for all.