Services
- Individual
About My Clients
When faced with unbearable pain, every person develops ways to deal with that pain. These ways of dealing (or adaptations), often developed early in life, were necessary at the time. However, these same adaptations can become automatic and habitual, and thus get carried into adulthood where they now cause more pain. I work with people who find themselves in pain, which can present as anxiety, depression, harsh self-criticism, attachment-related trauma, or (often) a combination of the above.
My Background and Approach
In therapy, together we will address any unhelpful adaptations by co-creating a relationship where you are empowered to uncover and connect with not only your desires for symptom relief (i.e., less anxiety, self-criticism, depression) but your desires for your life: the way you want to live your life, deep down inside. This may be deeper, more satisfying relationships, community connection, career growth, or connecting with a sense of play. We will then address obstacles to these desires and goals. By focusing on addressing and removing obstacles that arise, we create a secure attachment where you come to understand yourself deeply, develop greater trust in yourself, and gain strength to face what has previously been avoided. You can expect to be fully heard, empathized with, challenged, and empowered to end suffering and engage fully in life. This way of working is termed psychodynamic psychotherapy.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
I am originally from Melbourne, Australia, though Seattle is my chosen home. I first moved to Seattle in 2010 to work in academia at UW before re-training in social work (I am an associate licensed clinical independent social worker (LICSW-A) in WA state.) Outside of the therapy office, you can find me exploring the incredible mountain bike trails of the PNW or diving into some poetry, fiction, or creative non-fiction (shoutout to the Sun Magazine) over a cup of coffee at my local cafe. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you.