Psychotherapy is a process with the goal of healing suffering. I see my role primarily as a companion and support, someone to witness who you are, what your strengths and joys are, what your particular suffering is like, and encourage you on the path you choose to take toward healing. Of course, I have my experience, my knowledge and my opinions to share as it feels right to do so, and I can guide you in particular practices that can open you up to unknown parts of yourself. But what I believe is most important is for you to experience a space and connection with me that feels safe and non-judging, so that you can open fully to your own experience and wisdom.
Honesty between us is key. I ask in particular that you be willing to give me feedback when something I say doesn’t work for you or doesn’t feel right for you, even if you’re not sure why. I know that this may be very difficult for you to do, but I will welcome such honesty and try to meet it with interest and honesty as well.
A common misconception about psychotherapy is that every therapy session should delve into problems. To be sure, therapy often involves discussing unpleasant aspects of your life, and you may experience uncomfortable feelings like sadness, guilt, anger, frustration, loneliness and helplessness. As they say, the way out is often through. But frequently, it is more effective to build on what’s already going well, rather than “fix” what feels problematic.