Modalities and Influences
Dramatic Play, Improv & Expressive Arts
As a longtime improvisor, actor, comedian and teaching artist, I have witnessed and experienced first-hand the impact of theatre, dramatic play and expressive arts (sandtray, painting drawing) on building confidence, joy, freedom and openness in individuals, couples and families. Whether through role-play, using characters to give voice to inner emotions, exploring past events through monologues and scenes, envisioning your ideal life through artistic images, theatre and expressive arts have the power to heal and allow for a safer way to examine the psyche. LGBTQIA+ clients have explored gender identity, expression, and sexual identity through dramatic play, in a loving and safe space. I believe that it is extremely important to experience joy, individually and collectively, and to remember that feeling freedom to express one's deepest and most authentic self is a radical form of healing. We need to give ourselves permission to have fun, to be silly, and to break the rules!!! Kids are born instinctively knowing how to play, be present, and use their imaginations. Often adults have unlearned this natural ability, and I love to bring this sense of fun and play into sessions, when beneficial.
Nonviolent Communication (in Relationships)
Nonviolent communication (NVC) offers a model for effective communication that centers around nonjudgemental observation, naming a feeling, identifying a need and making a request (Rosenberg, M.B. 2015). Often in the midst of conflict, it is common to move to blame the other person for what went wrong, for our emotions, or for the cause of the discord. It can be challenging to center ourselves into what we are feeling, communicate that feeling, validate where the other person is coming from (and request what we need). We can become dysregulated, and our own trauma wounds, insecurities, and fears can get in the way of moving forward and connecting with our partner (family member/friend) more meaningfully, with patience, understanding and lovingkindness. I find that NVC is an incredibly healthful way of communicating that can be learned, practiced and implemented to allow for evolution and healing in relationships.
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Mindfulness
An important technique in psychotherapy is mindfulness. Mindfulness involves nonjudgmental presence and acceptance of thoughts and emotions as they arise, without controlling or denying them, and is evident and foundational to many psychotherapeutic modalities that have developed over the years (ACT, DBT etc.). I have witnessed the power of mindfulness in the process of uncovering and healing psychic wounds, identifying irrational beliefs and uncovering negative thought patterns. I personally have been influenced by many philosophers, mentors and teachers, including Pema Chodron, John Kabat-Zin and Tich Nacht Han, the importance of unconditional acceptance of oneself, others, and our present conditions in order for evolution to occur.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Clients who have battled depression and anxiety have especially benefited from the structured, solution-focused approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This modality provides a structure to examining how certain automatic and irrational thought patterns lead to challenging emotions and maladaptive behaviors. CBT offers a structured approach for recording, analyzing, and reframing these thoughts to reduce depression and anxiety and any thought patterns that are no longer serving one's peace and contentment.
My Approach & Experience
My approach is strength-based, and I adapt to the unique needs of each client. I am a facilitator, and want to ignite and bring forth a sense of agency and empowerment in the people I have the privilege of meeting. I work collaboratively with kids, teens, couples, and individual adults to discover what might be getting in the way of them living their fullest, most ignited and fulfilling life. I adapt the therapeutic modalities I utilized to the needs of those I am working with, depending on what can best be utilized to unlock balance, peace and joy! One person may need only a few sessions, and benefit from a solution-focused therapeutic container, while another might value a longer-term psychotherapeutic relationship.
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I received a Master's in Social Work (MSW) from the NYU Silver School of Social Work, and a B.A. in Communications (Theatre & Music Theatre Major) from Northwestern University. I have been a professional actor, teaching artist and improvisor for 14 years, and incorporate drama, theatre and comedy in my work as a therapist and social worker. I am pursuing a certificate in Trauma-Informed Creative Arts Therapy, and have training in eclectic expressive arts modalities. In addition to operating a private practice and serving as an LCSW in non-profits in CA and NY, I continue to be a professional actor around the country, dance salsa and hip hop, and sing in the Oakland Interfaith Community Choir! (I recently played Grandma Georgina in the Broadway National Tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!) For full acting website, click below:
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