My clients tend to be people who are looking for more meaning, improved relationships and a greater sense of well being.

People often want to pay attention to something this is not working well, and may report strain, stress, relationship issues; something that is just not as resolved as it could be. Lots of folks who feel sensitive and want to develop more self-care and better coping find their way here too.

The work I offer is not a match for people with acute and ongoing mental health challenges or active addiction to substances.

Once I heard a seeker friend say, “therapy is an admittance of health.” I welcome people who wish to learn more about themselves and how they relate to the world, their relationships and their own self.

It’s a collaborative, non-judgemental setting, where you have a confidential space to express whatever is alive for you, in the moment.  When used well, this work can be of great benefit to individuals, and those with whom they interact.  A hallmark is we’ll focus on helping you develop care and compassion for yourself first, and then others so that your future has more enjoyment; less strain.  It’s inspired by and modeled after interviews in a meditation setting, where one meets with a guide to discuss how one is applying their tools in everyday life, in service of their aspirations.

Absolutely not. People of any and all traditions are welcome. Buddhism is most akin to western psychology rather than any religious affiliation. It offers tools that may be useful, though not at all religious. For more than 2500 years Buddhism has been studying how the mind works, so it is a great complement to more traditional approaches.

Every session is different, yet there are themes based on the way I work with others. We will work in a client-centered way making use of the following methods for guiding you to increased understanding of yourself and your relationships: gestalt, Hakomi, cognitive and behavioral techniques, relaxation, Buddhist mindfulness meditation, body awareness, family and system relations, art, and movement. In other words, we will explore what you choose to in a respectful and kind manner. Periodically we will review your goals to be sure you are getting what you need.

Interview people. Ask questions. Feel the person out. I might ask: What’s your approach? How do you view clients? If they call you a patient that’s a tip that they probably have a medical model which may be more pathologically based. Do you have a Buddhist mindfulness meditation practice?

Their personhood (who they are, how they approach life, their own commitment to learning and growth etc…) does effect the client, so keep that in mind. Coaches generally have more authorization to share some of their own life lessons and learnings with folks.  In the last several years, it’s one of the reasons I’ve put my emphasis there.  You could ask questions about this, if it seems important to you. 

Think about what’s worked well for you with previous caregivers. Ask questions that help you discern if s/he has the same qualities. Likewise, with the parts you did not like.

When I have space to work 1:1 with new folks, I offer to talk with people who are considering me as a guide.  We can talk on the phone to address your questions and whatever else you wish to ask without charge. 

Also, I suggest you take one of my online, at your own pace classes.  It will give you a sense if my style and approach are a fit for you.  This is especially suggested if you want to be on a list for openings to work together 1:1.

Naropa University and The Hakomi Institute both list practitioners that have training similar to mine.