Find a Therapist in Mercer Island, Washington.

"Those who look outside, dream; they who look inside, awake."-Carl Jung. Why seek therapy? Because, among other reasons, life sometimes has a way of telling us who we should be, instead of letting us be ourselves. A spouse, a family member, a job, an internal voice that will not quiet; it's tough to speak for ourselves when we're being told by so many. Happiness and confidence are not found in being what you are told to be, but in listening to the internal voice of your heart and finding the courage to follow it. The challenge lies in quieting the voices, the anxiety and the fear and allowing your heart to speak. Therapy provides the space to create the silence.

I employ a holistic approach that bridges the worlds of shamanic healing, contemporary psychotherapy, and life coaching. The blending of these modalities recognizes and works with the invisible energies, the non-ordinary realities (however we each individually perceive these forces), and the physical world experiences and choices influencing our wellbeing. I bring to this work deep integrity, compassion, fortitude, intuition, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice in support of mine and others' journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity.

Psychotherapy is a process of deep exploration that seeks to create a greater understanding of the self. Once you understand something, you will learn skills to create more options so you can make the decision that will enhance your view of yourself, tour various roles in your life, and your relationships. Skills learned in psychotherapy can improve how you assess things (decrease shame, guilt, anxiety, for example), how you understand what others are doing (such as depersonalizing their behaviors, decreasing our reactivity to things they say or do), and improve your ability to communicate your wants and needs clearly and effectively.

My approach to Individual Counseling is really quite basic: We engage in honest and direct dialogue about life and relationships. During counseling sessions we examine the thoughts and feelings that create difficult circumstances and unsatisfying relationships. We begin to self-reflect. As our awareness deepens our worries and problems decrease and eventually dissolve completely. With greater focus and enthusiasm we channel our energy into realizing our heart's desires, allowing joyful experiences to naturally arise. A depth of meaning and satisfaction is seated within ourselves. We experience greater compassion and joy in all circumstances.

I am honored to work with individuals and couples from many different walks of life. My approach is rooted in respect, authenticity, and collaboration — always holding you as the expert in your own story. In our work together, I strive to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and genuinely affirming, where you can explore challenges honestly and move toward healing, growth, and deeper connection.

Individual therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. It is a unique relationship that offers support, perspective, and new skills that can help a person confront barriers that interfere with emotional and mental well-being. Patterns and habits that were once effective may no longer be working and could be preventing you from being where you want to be. Therapy can increase positive feelings, self-esteem, and provide a renewed sense of self that is strong and clear.

Therapy with me is largely about dialogue and connection. I ask my clients to make themselves vulnerable in the process and I am willing to do the same. I try to stay with what the client is bringing to the conversation and really understand where they are coming from in relation to their larger context. I am curious and well-rounded and can connect with clients on many levels and on many topics. I ask insightful questions, connect seemingly disparate dots to find patterns, pose theories and suggest treatment plans. It's only through understanding where you are that you can then decide where you would like to go.

If you have deep seated issues that are plaguing your personal and professional life, you may be ready to do deeper psycho-therapeutic work. Choosing a therapist will be very important as the fit of you and your therapist is a critical factor in the success of your psychotherapy. Calling a therapist takes courage. I will work with you in a respectful and compassionate manner, going at your pace. Call me at 425 652-1413 to see if we are a fit.