How I Work

My approach is informed greatly by systems theory, embodiment practices, Internal Family Systems, and Gestalt. In our work together, we might explore several interrelated realms: 

• Somatic (you + your body): We might focus on identifying and exploring the physical sensations and signals within your body, with patience and consent, to help you reconnect to your embodied self.

• Intrapersonal (you + your self): We can work together to uncover and unlearn beliefs, thoughts, and narratives that no longer serve you or keep you stuck, helping you reclaim your truth and a deeper sense of self.

• Interpersonal (you + others): We can explore your relational patterns and communication styles, (sometimes in real-time between you and I), to help build awareness and make space for authentic reciprocity, fostering healthy boundaries, and nurturing agency and choice in your relationships.

• Systems (the context in which we live): We will acknowledge the broader societal, cultural, familial, and structural systems that shape your experiences. Together, we can work to dismantle harmful narratives, identify external supports aligned with your values, and build resilience.

The resume: I hold a Masters of Science in Counseling from Portland State University, with a focus on family and relationship counseling. I have completed the year-long, Level 1 Internal Family Systems (IFS) training program, Susan McConnell’s Somatic IFS Level 1 training, the Center for Body Trust’s “Groundwork” program and “Motivational Interviewing for Weight-Inclusive Providers,” and a year-long Gestalt training with GATLA. Prior to my graduate studies, I spent five years working as a social and legal advocate for immigrant survivors of violence. 

The real life: I am also equally informed by my lived experience and years spent outside academic spaces, engaging in mutual aid efforts and working in the service industry, where I learned a lot about myself, my communities, and this beautiful mess of a thing called the human experience. My time in community, more than anything, has informed my approach: I work within a humanistic, queer, feminist, and liberatory orientation, with specific influence from ASDAH/Health At Every Size©, fat liberation, and anti-carceral, anti-racist, and disability justice movements.

 When working with you I'll use a collaborative, integrative approach and strive to support your capacity for inner reflection, self-empowerment, and growth. I’ll hold and appreciate the adaptive complexities within us, between us, and around us. I pay my respects to our bodies during session as a location of both wounding and wisdom. I hope to create a therapeutic space that honors the uniqueness of your life path within the structural, cultural, and relational systems that you developed from. 

If any of this interests you, we may be a good fit. Feel free to reach out for a consultation. I’d be glad to explore how we can collaborate on your journey.