My Values & Therapeutic Philosophy
Because I do therapy differently than others, there are a few things to know about my values and my approach to therapy.
1
We are equals.
Therapy with me is teamwork, not hierarchy. You are the expert in your own life, and I honor your knowledge and power as much as my own. I encourage you to share feedback often, help determine the direction of your therapy, and lean into your own empowerment.
2
Healing is messy.
This isn't social media, and not everything about healing is going to be pretty. It's non-linear and unavoidably imperfect. There are times where meditation does the trick, and there are times we need to binge-watch 7 hours of Game of Thrones. There is space in healing for both.
3
The personal is political.
We don't exist in a vacuum, and the systems around us inherently impact our mental health. Maybe it's clinical depression, maybe it's it's the suffocating system of patriarchy and a chronic lack of social support. Most likely it's some of both.
4
Carceral isn't therapeutic.
In the therapy world, we are starting to acknowledge the harm that comes from taking away your right to choose what is best for you and your life. There are still legal barriers to restoring full self-determination (like mandatory reporting laws), but I will work with you to make sure you fully understand those barriers and how we can avoid them.
5
I am human.
If you're looking for a "blank-slate" robot therapist, I'm not your girl. I show up as myself, flaws and all. I wear what's comfortable, I swear like a sailor, I talk politics, and I share my honest suggestions when you ask for them. I invite you to show up as your messy self, too! Hungry? Eat! Anxious? Let's fidget! Tired? Wear your PJ's!
6
Colonization isn't cool.
As in every other area of life, white folks in mental health have stolen indigenous practices and re-branded them as "evidence-based" techniques. It's important to acknowledge that only certain people have been allowed to create and profit from "evidence." I do my best to acknowledge all voices and give credit where credit is due.