Assessment
Every inquiry begins with a thorough evaluation that includes you, and if needed, your family members. I may also ask for information from other sources (mental health practitioners, school personnel, hospitals, treatment centers). The goal is to determine the nature of your problems and develop an individualized treatment plan based upon your needs.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Whether emotional problems are crises-oriented or ongoing, psychodynamic therapy is designed to help with any situation we might encounter. Individual sessions may be scheduled once or twice a week. In addition, collaborative work with other treatment professionals may be required, such as, psychiatrists, psychologists, family or couple's therapists, treatment centers or school counselors.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT is is a skills-based form of therapy. It is specifically designed for individuals who have difficulty regulating intense emotions, dysfunctional thought patterns and impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Five main skills are taught: Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Middle Path, Emotion Regulation and Distress Tolerance. DBT skills provide a unique blend of change and acceptance strategies. Skills are concrete, taught from handouts and reinforced with a weekly Diary Card. DBT can be most effective if the skills are taught 1x/week in individual sessions and 1x/week in group therapy. I am an intensively trained DBT therapist (The Linehan Institute-Behavioral Tech) and an associate of DBT Associates of Austin.
Canine Assisted Therapy
Research on the human-companion animal bond reveals many physical and psychological benefits. A powerful biological mechanism exists when we are in contact with certain animals, especially a dog, cat, horse or even a dolphin - we release the "bonding hormone" known as oxytocin. My therapy dog, Rusty, is a 10 year old Vizsla who absolutely loves to cuddle.
Art Therapy
Creating art in a therapeutic context can improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. A person does not need any experience in art in order to benefit from art therapy. The process of creating art can increase a client's self-awareness, insight and ability to cope with problems, stress and traumatic experiences. I received a BFA in Fine Arts and a BA in Art History from the University of Texas at Austin in 1988 and utilize mandalas, masks and free-form art.
Free 15-Minute Coaching Calls
Typically, you will require access to me outside of weekly therapy sessions. Phone or text access is especially important in times of crisis. I offer free fifteen-minute coaching calls or texting to my clients, parents, partners and caregivers for issues that come up before the next therapy session. Coaching centers on the use of interventions and coping skills needed in the moment. I make every effort to return calls within one business day.
Developmental Guidance
Some problems may be most effectively addressed through direct work with family members. For minors, I provide parenting strategies that are responsive to the teen’s and/or young adult’s needs.
Referrals
If other resources are required for a full recovery, referral will be made for medication, psychological testing, family therapy, group therapy, school-based consultations, psychiatric hospitals and treatment centers. Every effort will be made to find an appropriate referral for you.
Consultation
I have expertise in the emotional development and mental health needs of teenagers and adults. I can provide education and consultation to the press, schools, public groups and mental health professionals. I have extensive experience as a trainer on self-injury and other mental wellness topics.