About

About Han

As a Catholic therapist of Asian descent, I bring a bicultural perspective and spiritual sensitivity to my practice, offering compassionate counseling to individuals from various backgrounds. I'm proud to be recognized as one of the best LGBTQ therapists and therapist of color, providing a safe and affirming space for gay, lesbian, transgender, and queer individuals seeking support and understanding.

Han Bertrand, LICSW

Professional Affiliations

The International Association for Psychoanalytic Self Psychology

Specialized Training

Advanced postgraduate fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy at The Danielsen Institute at Boston University
Advanced postgraduate fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at The Institute for the Psychoanalytic Study of Subjectivity

Education

Master of Social Work, Boston College
Master of Theological Studies, Boston College

About Therapeutic Approach

xplore the effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapy, a comprehensive approach that delves into the unconscious mind to uncover deep-seated issues and promote personal growth. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven method to address anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges, offering practical tools for positive change. With Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), you can learn to manage stress and improve mental well-being through mindfulness and meditation practices.

Integrative and Holistic

I provide integrative and holistic psychotherapy services to people from all backgrounds. I believe that every individual has the innate capacity for self-growth and healing. It's my role to create a supportive, empathic environment that empowers you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a meaningful way.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) empowers individuals to regulate emotions, enhance interpersonal skills, and find balance in life. Gestalt therapy fosters self-awareness and personal growth by focusing on the 'here and now,' helping individuals understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) targets relationship issues and social functioning, aiding in the resolution of conflicts and improving communication skills.

Meet You Where You Are

My advanced training equips me with specialized expertise in psychodynamic psychotherapy, facilitating deep therapeutic work for genuine transformation. Central to my approach is a commitment to adaptability and flexibility, allowing me to meet you where you are and customize my approach to align with your unique needs and preferences.

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) helps individuals understand and process their emotions, leading to better emotional regulation and healthier relationships. Existential therapy explores the meaning of life and individual existence, assisting clients in finding purpose and direction. Family therapy addresses issues within family dynamics, promoting better communication and understanding among family members.

Flexible and Tailored

In addition to my advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, I am also informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). This allows me the flexibility to integrate various therapeutic techniques based on your unique needs and preferences.

About Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Highlights from Scientific Studies

"According to comparative analyses of controlled trials, the LTPP (Long-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy) showed significantly higher outcomes in overall effectiveness, target problems, and personality functioning than shorter forms of psychotherapy."

Leichsenring, F., & Rabung, S. (2008). Effectiveness of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy: a meta-analysis. Journal of the American Medical Association, 300(13), 1551–1565. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18827212/)

"In addition, patients who receive psychodynamic therapy maintain therapeutic gains and appear to continue to improve after treatment ends."

Shedler J. (2010). The efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy. The American Psychologist, 65(2), 98–109.(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20141265/)

Highlights from Media Reports

"In an era of “quick fixes” and instant gratification on the Internet, psychodynamic psychotherapy fills a need for connection, understanding, empathy, and authenticity."

Gabbard, G. O. (2017).Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Today. American Psychiatric Association Publishing (https://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.pn.2017.7a14)

"The actual scientific evidence shows that psychodynamic therapy is highly effective. The benefits are at least as large as those of other psychotherapies, and they last."

American Psychological Association. (2010, January 25). Psychodynamic psychotherapy brings lasting benefits through self-knowledge [Press release](https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2010/01/psychodynamic-therapy)

About How Therapy Works

Much like neuroplasticity allows for the rewiring of the brain, a strong therapeutic bond can facilitate a transformative shift in attachment styles, thereby paving the way for more fulfilling relationships and greater emotional well-being.

Neuroplasticity

Therapy harnesses the remarkable quality of neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to adapt and rewire itself. Feeling connected in therapy with a skilled therapist can lead to profound changes in the brain. This transformation is a fundamental rewiring of neural connections. The therapeutic bond, characterized by empathy and attunement, can help to reshape neural pathways, promoting healthier thought patterns and emotional responses.

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Attachment

Therapy is grounded in the fact that humans are relational beings. Insecure attachment styles can profoundly influence our sense of self and relationships with others. In the safe environment of a supportive and empathetic therapeutic alliance, you have the opportunity for a 'corrective emotional experience.' This secure attachment within therapy provides a foundation for challenging outdated narratives and fostering new, healthier ways of connecting.