Working Together

Many of my clients who have had previous therapy experiences find that my approach makes them feel more relaxed and comfortable when tuning into themselves, connecting with their feelings and memories. They often realize that all parts of themselves, regardless of how burdening or overwhelming, can be fully welcomed, accepted, and integrated. The psychotherapy I practice is confidential and centered on empathy and mutuality, the here-and-now experience, and inquiry into self.

I believe that therapy is for everyone. Therapy works when there is a secure therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client. Neuroscience shows that our brain can be rewired because of the brain's neuroplasticity. This happens only when there is genuine connectedness between the therapist and the client. In that emotional connection, the brain's neurons reorganize, reconnect, and rewrite. With enough time, the rewiring process will shift our mentality, mindset, and views to see ourselves and others in relationships. This shift is not based on any skill or tool, but on an innate capacity that has been activated, restored, and strengthened in the ongoing therapeutic relationship.

When you acknowledge your feelings, you allow yourself to feel them, which means talking about them, exploring, and understanding them more deeply. This can be a challenging task, especially when we have been trying to avoid them, but it is an important part of mental health and emotional intelligence that enable us to live to the fullest. 

Understanding your feelings is also understanding yourself and your relationships that bring both joy and pain. Having feelings is part of being human. There's no way to never have feelings, but there's a way to master self-regulation through self-empathy. Growing your ability to empathize with your own feelings is an irreplaceable benefit of long-term psychotherapy. 

Understanding your feelings means tuning into your needs, which may have been previously dismissed, repressed, overlooked, or rejected. It enables you to develop healthier coping mechanisms and build more meaningful relationships. 

Feelings are the language of our inner world. Yet, to truly embrace their wisdom, we must first understand and accept them without judgment or resistance. Healthy coping mechanisms stem from this foundational understanding, guiding us towards integration and growth.

Misconception: Psychotherapy is a quick fix for problems.

Contrary to popular belief, psychotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution or a magic pill that instantly resolves issues. It's a process that requires commitment, patience, and active participation from the individual. 

Misconception: Talking about problems in therapy is pointless; it doesn't help.

It's understandable to feel skeptical about the effectiveness of talking as a therapeutic tool, but research and countless personal testimonies attest to the profound benefits of verbal expression in therapy. By verbalizing thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment, individuals gain clarity, perspective, and emotional relief. Therapy provides a space for introspection, validation, and empathic understanding, which can be profoundly transformative. For instance, a person struggling with depression may initially doubt the value of discussing their feelings, but over time, they may find that expressing themselves openly fosters a sense of connection and relief from emotional burden.

Misconception: Psychotherapy is all about blaming parents for current issues.

While childhood experiences and family dynamics can indeed influence adult behavior and emotional patterns, effective therapy isn't about assigning blame to parents or dwelling on past grievances. Instead, it's about understanding how early experiences shape our perceptions and behaviors, empowering individuals to recognize and change unhelpful patterns. For example, a person may discover that certain beliefs or coping mechanisms developed in childhood no longer serve them well in adulthood, leading to insights and opportunities for growth.

Misconception: Psychotherapy is solely about dwelling on the past.

While exploring past experiences can be a valuable aspect of therapy, it's not the sole focus. Therapists utilize various techniques to help individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, empowering them to make positive changes in the present and future. 

Misconception: Only "weak" individuals seek therapy; it's a sign of failure.

Seeking therapy is a courageous step towards self-improvement, not a sign of weakness. Just as we visit a doctor for physical ailments, consulting a therapist for emotional and relational challenges demonstrates strength and a willingness to confront issues head-on. For example, a high-achieving professional may seek therapy to address work-related stress and prevent burnout, recognizing the importance of self-care and mental well-being.

Misconception: Psychotherapy is only for individuals with severe mental health issues.

In reality, psychotherapy is not solely reserved for those with diagnosable mental illnesses. Many adults seek therapy to navigate life transitions, manage stress, enhance self-awareness, and improve relationship dynamics.