Treatment Approaches

No two people are the same, and therapy should reflect that. My approach is tailored to you, combining research-backed assessments with evidence-based treatments to provide the best care possible. I draw from several therapeutic modalities, ensuring we work in a way that aligns with your needs, values, and goals.

At the heart of my practice is a strengths-based approach—you’re not starting from zero. You already have resilience, insight, and the ability to grow. My job is to help you recognize and build on those strengths while introducing new tools to help you navigate life’s challenges.

Evidence-Based Treatments I Use

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts shape our emotions and behaviors. When we’re feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed, distorted thinking patterns can make everything feel worse. Through CBT, we’ll work together to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, replacing them with healthier, more balanced perspectives.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Originally designed for emotional regulation and distress tolerance, DBT helps people manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, and build mindfulness skills. If you struggle with setting boundaries, handling intense emotions, or navigating conflict, DBT techniques can offer powerful strategies for change.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – for Individuals & Couples

EFT helps deepen emotional bonds and heal relationship wounds. Whether you’re working through personal challenges or relationship struggles, EFT provides a framework to identify negative patterns, strengthen emotional connections, and create lasting change.

Gottman Method – for Couples

The Gottman Method is one of the most researched and effective approaches for couples looking to improve communication, rebuild trust, or strengthen intimacy. This structured, science-backed approach helps partners recognize destructive patterns and replace them with healthier ways to connect and resolve conflict.

Family Systems & Functional Family Therapy

Our relationships—especially within families—shape how we see the world. These approaches focus on understanding family dynamics, improving communication, and breaking cycles that no longer serve you. Whether working with couples or individuals, I consider the bigger picture of how relationships impact emotional well-being.

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FAQ

  • Both psychologists and psychiatrists work to improve the mental and emotional health of their patients. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe psychotropic medications and assist with medication management whereas psychologists cannot. In some cases, psychiatrists can provide psychotherapy; however, psychologists are more likely to do therapy. Psychologists have a doctoral degree (i.e., Ph.D. or Psy.D) and are trained in psychological research, assessment, and psychotherapy but they do not prescribe medication.

  • You learned what a psychologist does above. Professional counselors (LPCs) and clinical social workers (LCSWs) can also provide psychotherapy services. Their training is not as extensive as that of a psychologist; however, to obtain licensure in Virginia, they must be trained at the master’s level and have at least two years of clinical counseling experience.

  • This varies depending on the presenting concerns and their severity. Typically, appointments are at least once a week for less than an hour. The frequency can be increased or decreased depending on your needs.

  • When using insurance, therapists must report a formal diagnosis. With self-pay, your therapist does not have to give a formal diagnosis, which is beneficial if you are concerned about your privacy as health insurance companies keep records. Not having a diagnosis also allows you to focus on growth and self-actualization without being pathologized.

  • Finding the right therapist can sometimes feel like shopping for a new car. Sometimes you love the first one you try and sometimes you have to test out a few before finding the right fit. You always have the freedom to choose your provider and if your therapist isn’t a good fit, you can leave without hard feelings. Your therapist will understand and will help refer you to other providers in your area.

  • That’s ok! A lot of people are skeptical about therapy at first. Go into therapy with an open mind and a clear understanding of what you’d like to see change in your life. Your therapist will help you to develop a plan to move forward and to have a better quality of life.

  • Your therapist is bound by a code of ethics that prohibits them from disclosing your information to anyone you don’t give them permission to do so. Due to mandated reporting, there are some limits to confidentiality in the case of suspected abuse or danger of serious harm to self or others but otherwise, no one will know you’re in therapy unless you tell them!