In our current environment, success stories on social media are the norm. We are inundated with articles about quick fixes — how to be happier if you follow these 7 steps, fix your relationship by knowing these 3 key secrets. We pursue the rabbit hole of this clickbait hoping for a solution to the pain we are currently in. Unfortunately, the very notion of quick fixes or the relentless pursuit of feeling happy at all times is actually a significant part of the problem. We expect ourselves to feel content and happy at all times!

However, when we step back to think about this idea, constant happiness is an unrealistic premise and pursuing it at all costs is exhausting.

In our work, you and I will discuss how to pursue those things that really matter to you — we identify your values, which serve as a guide to building the life you want. We will then uncover strategies that allow you to persist in pursuing your values in spite of the pain, doubt, and obstacles. Maintaining this focus tends to result in feeling better, but that is not the end goal as I see it. If we build a life worth living, judged by living in accordance with our own values, feelings of contentment will follow. And so will times of difficulty! But, armed with new strategies for riding the wave of difficult emotions and accompanied by a compass pointing us in the right direction, life becomes more meaningful and full of vitality.

My approach to therapy is to use empathy and compassion to understand you, the client, and then combine that knowledge with the latest science to show you a way forward. I am dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest research in the field, and I aim to offer therapy that is in line with what science has shown to be helpful. I also aim to provide a welcoming, affirming environment where you feel safe to share difficult thoughts and feelings; explore your values; consider conflicts among your values or between your values and those of your family, partner, or cultural groups; and process challenging life circumstances, such as trauma or experiences of systemic oppression.

I have extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These approaches share a philosophy that lasting change is built by: 1) learning new ways of relating to your thoughts, 2) learning new coping skills to help you ride the waves of difficult emotions, and 3) directing your life toward daily actions, both big and small, that are consistent with your values. Through all of this, I work with my clients to develop a sense of self-compassion — making meaningful change and having the courage to discuss difficult topics is hard, and many of my clients negatively judge themselves for not doing things fast or well enough! Developing the patience and kindness towards yourself that enables you to pursue change without criticizing yourself every step of the way can help make the journey a bit smoother.