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theoretical foundations

individual counseling

In individual counseling, you and I will meet one-on-one on a regular basis to discuss the issues and events that you’ve been struggling with. You are free to bring anything to these sessions, and it is my hope that our meetings can be a safe enough place to treat like a practice arena, where you can try on new ways of being and experiencing yourself before bringing these changes out into your life. My position is to support you, help you develop insight and compassion for yourself, and coach you toward making the changes you desire in your life. Some examples of subjects we can explore are: 
 

  • Support with life transitions

  • Building confidence

  • Managing Boundaries (in relationships, with finances, work, etc.)

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Relationship Stressors

  • Guilt and Shame

  • Self-Advocacy & Communication

  • Stress Management & Self Care

I work from a person-centered perspective, which means that above everything else, the relationship we have with each other is the most important element of therapy. My training and expertise are balanced with my understanding that ultimately, we are two human beings having a conversation. I believe that we all have undeniable needs (for example, for connection, autonomy, meaning) and we will do what is necessary to have those needs met. I see you as the expert on your life and your story. You don’t need to impress me or earn my approval, and you aren’t in therapy to be judged or evaluated. My role is to support, encourage, and coach you toward reaching your goals. In our sessions, your needs will be accepted and validated, and we will work together to find ways to honor your wisdom about what is most needed and important.  

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My work is also grounded in attachment theory, which emphasizes that human beings have an innate, biological drive toward meaningful relationships. In our work, I recognize how complicated relationships can be, and how we can both want to be close to others and have intense fears about how relationships can hurt. Using this understanding as a framework, we will focus on building security in our relationship, and exploring what may be needed in your relationships with yourself and the other important people in your life. We will work on creating safe havens and secure bases in your life so that you are no longer limited by your history, culture, or what our society says you “should” be, and instead you will be free enough to live in a way that most aligns with your values. 

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Leaves Shadow

The decision to start counseling can come from so many places; whether you're in a state of intense distress or just wanting to set aside some time to process the difficult parts of your life, you deserve to be met with kindness. It is important to me that first you will find a way to feel better, and then I welcome the deeper work of understanding where some of these painful parts originated, healing relational wounds, and restructuring your life in the direction of greater meaning and alignment with your values and aspirations. 

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It is important to me that we can acknowledge the forces and structures of our world that may act as barriers to healing and wellbeing; these include but are not limited to racism, sexism, heterosexism, ableism, classism, and xenophobia. In our work together, you will be met with acceptance and compassion, especially in the many layers of your identity. We will work together to analyze systems of power and where you can find your strength and voice.

Image by Zhifei Zhou

I am currently offering individual therapy for women ages 18+ in my private practice in Seattle. Along with this practice, I work with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse at Roanoke Park Counseling. If you would like to know more about me and the work we could do together, you can read more about me, or contact me so I can answer any questions. 

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