Knowing that these are the thoughts and feelings my clients are coping with as they walk through my door, I see my first task as a therapist to ease these concerns quickly. Yes, coming to therapy is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be a scary one. Usually, after that first session, clients – whether they are adults or children -- tell me they feel relieved and surprised and look forward to coming back.

My Approach

My approach is psychodynamically oriented in that I consider our past experiences to have a powerful influence on our present-day lives, whether we are conscious of these influences or not. Working from that base, I also draw on a range of techniques and ideas from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness techniques. Whether I am working with an anxious child, an unmotivated adolescent or an adult who is dissatisfied in their job or relationships, I use a down-to-earth, realistic and flexible approach to help clients build on their strengths to create the lives they want for themselves. For children, this is done mainly through play therapy, although work with parents and teachers is also critical to the process. More of a collaborator than a guide in the therapeutic process, I believe that everyone has a story that is worthy of being heard. And that sometimes the simple act of telling that story and having someone take an active, empathic interest can make a world of difference.

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