I integrate mindfulness into my work which I would describe as attachment-based, emotion-focused, experiential, and depth-oriented psychotherapy. I incorporate several modalities into my work with particular emphasis on my favored therapeutic models and interventions listed below.
I am a certified Internal Family Systems therapist. IFS is an evidence-based model of psychotherapy which offers a clear, non-pathologizing, and empowering method of understanding human problems, as well as an innovative and enriching philosophy of practice that invites both therapist and client to enter into a transformational relationship in which healing can occur. Founded by family therapist Richard Schwartz, Ph.D., the model focuses on inner parts work, bringing to awareness parts of ourselves (beliefs, thoughts, feelings) that may drive our system in unhealthful ways, in order to bring harmony to the individual while respecting their various parts. Check out my site at ifspageaday.com
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy) by EMDRIA (EMDR International Association), and trained in Attachment-Focused EMDR through the Laurel Parnell Institute. Founded by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., EMDR is a psychotherapy treatment that is used to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. EMDR therapy facilitates the accessing of the traumatic memory network, so that information processing is enhanced, with new associations forged between the traumatic memory and more adaptive memories or information. Successful treatment with EMDR therapy aims to relieve affect distress, re-formulate negative beliefs, and reduce physiological arousal. New associations are thought to result in complete information processing, new learning, elimination of emotional distress, and development of cognitive insights.
I am certified by ICEEFT in EFIT (Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy), EFFT (Emotionally Focused Family Therapy) and in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT). EFCT is a structured approach to couples' therapy developed by Drs. Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg. It is grounded in research and focuses on strengthening the attachment bond in the couple's relationship. Attachment between people ideally provides a secure base as well as a safe haven: a retreat from the world and a way to obtain comfort, security and a buffer against stress. As an EFCT therapist, I help the couple to understand their emotional experiences, the interactions that get them stuck in a negative cycle, and guide them toward creating new interactions that allow them to turn toward each other in a positive cycle.
Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) is about experientially maximizing opportunities for healing and transformation. I am an AEDP Level III therapist. Founded by Diana Fosha, Ph.D., the model works effectively with distress stemming from an unbearable feeling of aloneness in the midst of overwhelming emotion. The major goals of AEDP are the undoing of aloneness and the co-creation of a therapeutic relationship which provides both a safe haven and a secure base. In AEDP, we work experientially with emotional experience, not just towards healing trauma and suffering, but also towards promoting vitality, flourishing, growth, and positive transformational experiences.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a third wave cognitive behavioral therapy representing an evolution and extension of traditional CBT. ACT was originated by Steven Hayes, Ph.D. and is based on relational frame theory. It is an empirically validated mindfulness-based therapy focusing on six core processes, with the primary goal of increasing psychological flexibility and helping you build a rich, full and meaningful life in line with your values.