Many different paths lead people to therapy, but common among them is a desire to be listened to by another human being with deep curiosity, compassion, and patience— and indeed, a major part of providing helpful therapy is the ability to listen in this way. Much like a musician honing their instrument throughout their life time, a therapist's listening ear can be developed through similar discipline and artistry. My ongoing immersion in contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis (including as a candidate in an IPA-accredited institute, the Northwest Psychoanalytic Society and Institute) has been an excellent way to continually tune my instrument in hopes of striking useful chords with each individual I serve.
I help people to be more present and connected with themselves, with others, and with their world. This includes, but also goes beyond, increasing mindfulness and self-awareness. Within the present moment are legacies of the past—both personal (our own unique stories) and collective (the intersecting cultures, societies, and environments we live in). At the same time, within the present moment are also seeds awaiting birth towards a new and unknown future; one that is unpredictable, but that you may be able to influence in important ways. In my experience, therapy is often a long-term and in-depth process that requires a sturdy and emotionally sensitive therapist. Profound change can ensue from this way of working.
Liberation from a past that keeps repeating itself may be possible through enhanced awareness and a growing ability to make new choices. By working in the present moment together—and yet also respecting, exploring, and attuning to the influence of past history as well as hopes and fears about the future—a more fulfilling, peaceful, and passionate life may be possible.