Shame is the enemy of well-being because it tells us our needs don’t matter. It says to “stop being so sensitive” and pressures you to “let go” of situations that “shouldn’t” bother you. Shame keeps us locked in patterns of destructive behavior and unsatisfying relationships. It makes us question our own experience of reality, dismiss our pain, and deny ourselves the relief that might come from asking for help. I am here to help you find a way to the other side of shame, where you can experience your emotions and live in the present moment.

I am a seasoned therapist specializing in treatment of trauma and personality disorders. I use an approach that begins with understanding how you experience the world and what major life events shaped this point of view. I rely heavily on the use of education and humor to help you decrease inappropriate shame and begin to view yourself with the compassion you deserve. Our work together will involve the use of mindfulness strategies to get back in touch with what is happening right now – in your mind and body, as well as in the world around you. From the safety of the present moment, I will help you learn skills to manage symptoms more effectively and respond to stressors adaptively.

During our time together, we will examine the painful experiences that first taught you to view yourself through the lens of shame. You will process those events in a supportive environment that allows you to finally leave them in the past. You will learn to validate yourself, experience your emotions, and make choices to get your needs met. You will learn how to let go of that which doesn’t serve you and spend less time stuck in your head. The first step away from shame is reaching out and making an appointment.