How I Work

I believe YOU are the expert of your life.

We all come with our own experiences and perceptions of these experiences. It is not my job to tell you what to change or how you feel. I cannot tell you what to do or how to fix your life. It is you who are in control of these things.

 

Adopting a curious mind

Everyone’s experiences are unique and valuable.  I’ve heard and been part many stories through the lens of my clients over the years. Each of these stories are so valuable and part of growth is the process of telling our stories and understanding them. I love adopting a curious mind and becoming part of your stories by actively listening and asking questions that will help you gain insight and new perspectives.

 

Developing a therapeutic relationship

Having psychological knowledge is one thing and being able to connect with a person is another. Developing a trusting, meaningful therapeutic relationship is one of the most important steps toward growth. Not all counselors are the same, we all have our personalities, approaches to life, experiences and skills set. Finding the right match for you will be crucial for meeting your personal goals. Trusting your counselor and having your counselor trust you is key for change. I believe that a good therapeutic relationship is created in a non-judgemental space where you feel safe and valued.

 

Creativity and flexibility

Because everyone’s experiences are different, it is crucial that I meet you where you are each and every time we meet. This requires me to be flexible in sessions and that I adapt to where you are in life at that particular time in life. Sessions, especially in working with children, need to be flexible, adjusting and changing depending on the situation at hand. Creativity is key when working with younger kids as this is how they learn and relate to the world around them.

 

Challenging and stepping out of your comfort zone is key

Feeling uncomfortable may not always feel good, but it is necessary. Looking back, every uncomfortable moment experienced has led me toward growth. I see the same happening time and time again in the lives of many. A good therapeutic relationship will require you to at times experience uncomfortable feelings by challenging perspectives, thoughts, or bringing up things that otherwise would be missed. Doing so with humility, care and non-judgemental stance is key. 

 

It’s not about me, it’s about you

I value your time and experiences and believe that when you time begins, that time is for you-not me. Providing you with the time to explore YOUR experiences and thoughts is what makes sessions worth it. Sessions are a place where you can feel cared for and understood.  

 

Working toward a goal

Although at times necessary, simply venting about the week will not lead you to creating change.  I believe it’s important for you to have a clear goal in mind and that we make steps toward reaching those goals every week. My dream for sessions is that one day you will feel ready to do it on your own.