Tools in Therapy
Therapeutic Relationship
Research has shown that a positive therapeutic relationship is directly linked to successful outcomes in counseling. For this reason, I value and nurture the unique rapport which I build with each client and strive to strengthen this connection throughout our work together. The therapy partnership is solidified by working as a team towards the same expected outcome. Determining specific treatment goals together and checking in on progress throughout therapy helps to establish alignment between what my clients hope to achieve in therapy and the effectiveness of the support which I provide. Counseling can sometimes feel like taking a bumpy ride on a road with many twists and turns, so a strong and unified therapeutic relationship ensures greater stability throughout the journey.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) evolved from a popular trauma-focused intervention known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). In ART, we combine rapid eye movement (which mimics the REM part of our natural sleep cycle) with imagery and metaphors that replace traumatic memories - and their associated physical sensations - with more positive or neutral ones. Healing is achieved through "re-directing" and "re-scripting" negative memories, like in a movie. This helps to reduce or eliminate residual and problematic emotional and physical symptoms which are tied to the original trauma.
Learn more about ART
Internal Family Systems
Internal Family systems is a modality that breaks down personality parts within each of us and seeks to understand their origin, purpose, and unique thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It's fascinating to explore ourselves in this way! Understanding these parts creates a greater awareness of what drives us and how we can better align with the best version of ourselves and experience increased control over our lives. It also helps us to better understand others and how our personality parts influence our relationships.
Learn more about IFS
Somatic Experiencing
Somatic experiencing is centered around achieving increased awareness, control, and resolution of physical, sensory symptoms held in the body as a result of negative memories and associations. Many of these associations are positive, which we work to strengthen. However, the primary focus of this approach is on reducing or eliminating associations which perpetuate negative physical and emotional symptoms that create barriers to living our best life.
Learn more about SE