I specialize in working with lifestyle pioneers in the communities of sexual minorities:sex radicals, polyamorists, gender explorers, leather people and other relationship pioneers. My training includes a wide range of theoretical models: object relations, gestalt-integrative, relational therapy, and other windows into our inner dynamics. I also employ practical techniques from learning theory, cognitive and behavioral therapies.
Emotional problems often arise when we struggle to avoid feeling a painful emotion or a humiliating or traumatic memory. I work to make psychotherapy into a safe place to open up difficult feelings and welcome them into the light of consciousness.
Therapy requires opening your heart to your own emotions, and openheartedness starts with compassion for your own pain. When you tell yourself that you are not an acceptable human being, then how can you accept anyone else? When you can live in acceptance and empathy with yourself, even in times of pain and confusion, then healing can begin.