INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS (IFS)

In addition to having extensive training and practice in using psychodynamic psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) is my primary modality when working with clients. IFS is a non-pathologizing, evidenced-based model of psychotherapy. I am a Level 3 trained IFS practitioner, with years of experience helping clients achieve healing, harmony and repair both internally and in their relationships. I have used the model effectively with both individuals and couples, and successfully applied IFS to a great diversity of internal and relational challenges.

SPECIALTIES

Complex Trauma - Tendencies toward emotional dysregulation, overwhelm and shutdown can often be attributed to complex trauma. Whether resulting from one or two significant events or multiple painful or challenging life experiences, complex trauma disrupts your capacity to feel calm and flexible when faced with life stressors. I find IFS uniquely suited to helping people heal from from trauma and establish a greater sense of confidence in responding to stress.

Relational Conflict - People often find themselves in frustrating and painful patterns in relationships. These situations may involve the people about who you care most deeply (spouses/significant others, family, best friends) as well as those you simply “have to” get along with (co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances). Whether working with individuals or couples, I consider myself a “relationship person,” one that helps make addressing and repairing conflict more approachable and less scary.

Work Transitions & Stuckness - Challenges at work can cause daily stress and they can also negatively affect your sense of identity and self-esteem. Whether you are at the early stages of recognizing a need for something to shift, embarking on a major change, or deeply invested in sticking out a tough situation, I enjoy helping clients open up to options, strategies and resources that they haven’t fully considered.

Men’s Issues & Identity - In our current times, men and boys are experiencing profound levels of isolation and disconnection. Many of us have not been encouraged (or we’ve been actively discouraged) from identifying and getting to know our own feelings. And we often are given a false choice between acknowledging our sensitivity and maintaining our dignity. I help men to embrace all aspects of their humanity.

Parenthood - The stresses of parenting can feel overwhelming, amplified by a highly competitive society oriented to achievement and optimization, with resultant burnout, shame and disconnection from our children, even when we’re doing our best. As a parent of two children, I have a special appreciation for the challenges involved in being a caretaker. Consider me an approachable ally in navigating relationships with your partner(s) through the parenting journey.