As a psychotherapist, I draw from the psychotherapy research literature in devising my interventions, integrating methods that have been proven and empirically validated. I combine these with a broad based spiritual approach to problem solving. And because the research suggests that the most important aspect of successful psychotherapy is the forming of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I pay particular attention to forming a respectful, non-hierarchical, team-based connection with my clients. I have come to recognize the individual's primarily need to be respected and validated in the place where they have arrived. Meeting there, the therapist is able to join together with the client in taking the next steps toward personal growth and well being. Individuals who find themselves in difficult places on their path to fulfillment can be benefited immensely by an experienced, educated and spiritual helping guide.

I primarily use cognitive-behavioral techniques in conjunction with increasing spiritual awareness, which have been shown to be effective in hundreds of studies for a wide range of psychological and relational problems and life transitions. This approach emphasizes teaching clients useable skills to change unproductive or self-limiting ways of thinking and behaving. My belief is that one's attitude determines one's level of fulfillment and success. I teach clients in effect to become their own therapists, practicing the techniques they learn in the real world outside of sessions. Through this process, the client's awareness of reactions and assertive actions become evident. Such work is usually structured; short-term and problem-solving oriented, making room as well for open-ended exploration and reflection when appropriate.

I typically begin by helping clients define goals for our work together (such as lessening anxiety or depressive symptoms, overcoming self-defeating behaviors, increasing conscious awareness, spiritual fulfillment or improving relationship skills). My clients and I then collaboratively devise strategies to achieve these goals, jointly decide what self-help activities they want to try between sessions, determine how long therapy should last, and so on. Since change isn't always easy, I encourage clients to observe and discuss the blocks that get in the way as they implement change in their lives, so that we can fine-tune our strategies, using ongoing two-way feedback about the process.

My work is also influenced by a combination of Eastern wisdom, regarding the need for a holistic approach to the mind-body healing process, the science of psychology and a broad based Christian Spirituality. Both documented research findings and my own personal and professional experience highlight the powerful role of stress reduction and calming techniques (such as prayer, meditation, yoga, relaxation training, simplifying ones life , etc ) in improving ones emotional well-being. I often teach interested clients specific relaxation and stress reduction skills, including ways to slow down and dwell more mindfully in the present moment, helping clients find what methods work best for them. In taking a holistic view, I also encourage clients to approach their challenges from multiple perspectives (physical, emotional, interpersonal, spiritual, and so forth). For example, if worry and nervousness are the complaint, we might examine everything from the withheld feelings underlying this emotional state, to techniques to center and calm, to the role of nutrition and exercise, to ways to create greater meaning and purpose in life.