Treatment Philosophy

 

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an empirically validated, somatic and mindfulness-based therapy, which supports healing and change from a place of deepening self-understanding and trust.  The IFS approach recognizes that every one of us is made up of different "parts" (for example, a part that feels agitated and upset, and another part that says 'you shouldn't be angry').   In this work, we find different ways to connect to, learn about, and listen to these different parts of ourselves.  We get to know parts who may feel overly responsible for caring for others; we listen to hardworking parts who try hard to achieve or to avoid making mistakes at all costs; we learn about the fears and shame that parts that carry around food or body image; we welcome and befriend those parts that feel insecure or conflicted in relationships.  As I do this work with clients, I see again and again how this process brings fresh clarity and possibilities into areas of their lives that had felt previously stuck and unworkable. 

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IFS has also been recognized as one of the preferred therapies for clients with a history of trauma, because it allows us to go deeper than traditional "talk therapy", to connect directly with those parts who continue carry these wounds and support their healing.  Through this work, clients often experience relief from physical and emotional complaints that had been held in the body for many years. 

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This is powerful work, and I often hear from clients that they are feeling increasingly connected to themselves, present and grounded in their bodies, and openhearted towards themselves and others, as they bring these practices into their lives.  Many of my clients are themselves skilled therapists and healers, and it has been a gift to accompany them in this process of healing and change.​​​​​​​​​​​

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                         Education and Training

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I received my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from UCLA, and my B.A. from Cornell University.  Prior to opening my private practice in 2011, I worked in a variety of treatment settings, including an OCD treatment program, a college student counseling center, and a number of years on staff at an eating disorder clinic.  I am a Certified Provider in both IFS and Intuitive Eating, which is a body positive, mindfulness-based approach to healing food and body concerns.  I am also an experienced mindfulness meditation teacher, and I have found that this has beautifully supported my work with clients.   I'm happy to answer any questions you may have with a brief phone consultation.  I look forward to meeting you!