What to Expect in Therapy

I bring a warm and compassionate presence to the therapy room. You are invited to be gracious and true to where you are in your present season of life—to share what’s on your mind, no matter how unfiltered or not fully thought out as it may feel. You are okay to not feel okay.

During the initial 1-2 sessions, we identify your top concerns as well as recount a narrative of your story thus far. I take this thorough and holistic approach to learn the full “you” and the experiences that have made you who you are today. From there, we collaboratively create a plan for therapy based on your goals and my initial impressions.

As we dive into therapy, we can “workshop” whatever concerns you have. Think of it like dumping multiple LEGO sets on the floor — we can observe the pieces and how they fit together, disassemble them, and figure out how you want to piece things back together.

Over time, you will be able to experience growth in these areas:

Awareness

Awareness is the process of attuning to what you haven’t been paying attention to.

As we explore, I help you connect to your past experiences, your present thoughts & feelings (conscious & unconscious), and your future dreams. There are wounds, fears, and desires hidden in your unconscious that present themselves in various thoughts about self and behavioral patterns. This awareness is foundational in learning who you are, discerning who you want to be, and planning out the steps to live that out.

I use emotionally focused & psychodynamic approaches as well as trauma-informed insight from neuroscience/polyvagal theory to help you safely & effectively process your experiences.

Autonomy

Autonomy is the ability to take control or your thoughts, behaviors, and circumstances.

With insight gleaned from awareness, you can practice tangible skills to break free from problematic thoughts, behaviors, emotions, or relationships that have made you feel stuck.

I am here to encourage and help you develop the skills you need to help you cope with hard things or take risks in trying something new.

Authenticity

Authenticity is not as much a destination as it is a state of being.

That means you can experience it here & now, even amidst the unknown.

You have the ability and permission to create your own unique path. As you heal & grow, you can become confident in not only where you are going, but also with who you are becoming—aligned with your mind, body, emotions, values, and pursuits.

Conclusion

There is no particular “order” for growth in awareness, autonomy, and authenticity.

In fact, these all work in tandem. The more aware you are, the more in control you will feel to change a behavior. More autonomy can make you feel more in tune with your ideal self. Likewise, feeling more authentic may highlight other areas of your life that also feel aligned (or not).

You can use therapy weekly, bi-weekly, or for a season — whatever you need; and it can conclude when you feel ready to launch off on your own. However, if new stressors arise or you want extra support, you aren’t stuck on your own. You can always pick up therapy again when you need.

As you journey, my hope is that you will feel encouraged, empowered, and equipped to traverse whatever obstacles you may face.