“Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” These words, written by Pema Chödrön, capture the nature of the therapeutic relationship. Our work will look like joining together as we honor your story and compassionately notice the places in your heart that feel broken and are hurting.
The choice to show up in this way is both hard and brave; at times, it will feel messy, scary, and confusing. A piece of healing is coping with symptoms and using theory-driven approaches, but I want more for your heart. I want to invite you to be known. In the safety of our relationship, I offer the opportunity to have your story be held and seen – in its entirety; this means even the parts that you feel are unworthy of care right now. It is my hope that this space will allow true heart healing.
In my practice, I am especially fond of working with survivors of trauma, children who have experienced harm, those with childhood wounds, those wondering what their purpose is, and those who struggle to see how worthy and important they are. My therapeutic approach uses curiosity through conversation, art, play, or yoga to develop insight. In the courageous space of therapy, we will sit in the “suck” together, we will be attentive to your story, and we will hold hope. I would be honored for you to choose me to walk alongside you on your journey.
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Career difficulties, Depression, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, Attachment issues, Blended Family Issues, Body image, Codependency, Communication problems, Domestic Violence, Family of Origin Issues, Family Problems, Guilt and shame, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Sexuality, Women's issues, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
DC LICSW LC50082322