Complicated grief

Grief is a normal part of life, and is inescapably attached to loss of all kinds, be it a loved one (including a beloved pet), or a loss of role, identity, freedom, relationship, or innocence.  Complicated grief is when the grief doesn't end, or the grieving takes over someone's life.  EMDR can help with this. 

Shame, guilt, and negative core beliefs

Shame, guilt, and negative core beliefs hold us back in life and are often related to trauma, seemingly big or small.  They can be treated effectively with EMDR.  Sometimes clients benefit from interventions like CBT, DBT, or psychoeducation to help them further.

Clients identifying as queer

I frequently work with clients who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, two-spirit, transgender, non-binary, questioning, and otherwise identify as queer.  I celebrate the bravery and strength it takes to be true to oneself in a society that is taking its time to get there.  You can feel safe here to explore your world.  

Self-harm and suicidal thoughts

Self-harm and suicidal thoughts can be effectively treated in therapy for a client who wants to break free from this painful way of being and feels motivated to get help.  There are times when I would recommend urgent, inpatient, or community services to be used instead, for reasons of safety.  DBT was designed to help with these concerns, and therapy starts by building trust through a strong therapeutic rapport.    

Caregivers of ill loved-ones

Being a caregiver to an ill loved-one is incredibly difficult and isolating.  Many strong emotions come up for caregivers and it can be hard to cope.  I have a strong understanding of this challenge, I have worked directly with family members in a group setting, and I carried out my Masters research in the area of family involvement in the mental health system.

Substance use and other addictions

Using substances (or engaging in other addictions such as gambling) are reactions to trauma, stress, and an inability to cope.  Users may feel like they lack self-control and hope.  Therapy can involve EMDR, DBT, and close work together to find reasons to change and strategies that hurt less (and make life better).