Specialized Training

I strive to create a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental environment where you can talk openly, especially about experiences connected to shame, self-judgment, or difficult emotions. You are invited to guide the pace and focus of each session, while I offer compassion, feedback, and, when helpful, gentle humor to ease tension.

Clients often describe my style as direct yet supportive. I aim to provide honest feedback that can be difficult to hear from others, while also helping you move toward meaningful and lasting change. Many of the patterns we struggle with today once served an important purpose in helping us cope. Understanding the origin of these patterns can foster greater self-compassion and openness to change.

I also take time to explain the “why” behind treatment recommendations, as understanding the process often reduces resistance and supports progress. The therapeutic approach is carefully tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Clients are encouraged to collaborate in this process so they could feel seen and supported, creating a strong foundation of trust for healing and growth.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987, is an evidence-based approach that has been widely researched and used internationally. It is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which suggests that the brain has a natural capacity to heal and process difficult experiences.

When distressing or traumatic experiences are not fully processed, they can become stored in ways that continue to impact emotions, thoughts, and the body. This may show up as anxiety, panic, or patterns in relationships that feel hard to change.

EMDR helps people process these experiences by targeting related memories, emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations. It uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or sound), which supports the brain’s natural processing system and is similar to what occurs during REM sleep.

For more literature on EMDR, you may find it on emdria.org or emdr.com.

Brainspotting (BSP)

Brainspotting, developed by Dr. David Grand in 2003, is a trauma-focused therapy approach that helps access and process emotional and physical experiences held in the brain and body.

It is based on the idea that where you look can influence how you feel. During sessions, eye position is used to help identify “brainspots,” or areas connected to stored emotional experiences. With the therapist’s attuned support, clients are able to notice and process thoughts, emotions, and body sensations that may not be easily accessed through traditional talk therapy.

Brainspotting can be used on its own or alongside EMDR, depending on your needs. Many clients find it helpful for working through experiences that feel difficult to resolve through talk therapy alone. Bilateral music is often used to support focus and processing, though it is optional.

For more literature on BSP, you may find it on brainspotting.com.

Ericksonian Hypnotherapy

Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, developed by psychiatrist Dr. Milton H. Erickson, is a gentle, client-centered approach to hypnosis that uses natural states of focused attention, imagination, and language to support change. Unlike traditional directive hypnosis, this approach is indirect and collaborative, honoring each person’s unique way of thinking and experiencing the world.

In session, you remain fully aware and in control while being guided into a relaxed, focused state. In this state, the mind is often more open to new perspectives, insights, and adaptive ways of responding. The work may involve storytelling, metaphors, and carefully chosen language that speaks to the unconscious mind in a respectful and individualized way.

Ericksonian Hypnotherapy can be helpful for a range of concerns, including anxiety, habits, stress, and emotional processing. The approach is always tailored to your comfort level and therapeutic goals.

KETAMINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY (KAP)

Ketamine was first approved by the FDA in 1970 as an anesthetic and has been safely used in medical settings for over 50 years. In ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), clients are medically evaluated by a physician who determines eligibility, safety, and dosing.

I have received clinical training and consultation in KAP through Polaris Insight Center. My role is to provide a supportive therapeutic setting in which clients self-administer ketamine while engaging with their therapeutic intentions. Each medicine session is followed by an integration session to help process the experience and apply insights to the healing journey.

Clients often report that KAP helps them feel “unstuck” in therapy and develop a deeper connection with themselves.

The DUOWAND (PATENT DEVICE)

Brainspotting has become an integral part of my clinical work with clients. Traditionally, it involves the use of a handheld wand held in a stationary position during extended processing periods, which can create physical strain for the therapist and potential distraction for the client.

To address this, I developed the DuoWand, an ergonomic device designed to improve comfort and support the therapeutic process. Since its introduction, it has been used to support both clinicians and clients in their healing work. The DuoWand was awarded a U.S. patent (#11,174,980 B1) on November 16, 2021.