Becoming a mental health counselor has been a lifelong pursuit. I was drawn to the field - as many helpers are - by my own early traumatic experiences, which sparked in me a desire to support others who might also be navigating fear, isolation, and marginalization in the midst of their trauma.
This pursuit took many turns. I have worked in a range of settings, from residential care facilities to hospitals and community agency work, and have seen the ways in which folks struggling with their mental health continue to be stigmatized and under-served.
Private practice has allowed me to focus on what I enjoy and the skills that come most naturally to me: creating space that welcomes all emotions, encourages personal insight and self-compassion, and is curious about what unconscious dynamics may be shifted in order for transformation to occur. I do this through a psychodynamic orientation, which is focused on the unconscious processes that affect and guide our behavior.
Using the wisdom of the body as a guide, we gently explore any areas that cause discomfort and pain, which often helps us better understand our behavior, thoughts, and feelings and ultimately integrate our understanding into a more whole self. While I don't practice the following methodologies strictly, meditative practices, Internal Family Systems, and somatic approaches have all informed my counseling style.
I have experience and interest in working with people identifying as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities as well as those invested in challenging their own intersected systems of privilege and marginalization.
Another area of joy for me is supporting artists working to explore and free their creative pursuits - whether acting, drawing, sculpting, writing, dancing, creating music - the ways we express our artistry are endless but the core anxieties that hold us back from our true selves are often the same across disciplines.
Taking the first step to reach out and talk to a counselor can be daunting. I am here to walk you through the process and am happy to answer any questions you have during a free 15 minute video consultation to ensure a good fit. When you feel ready to talk more, please e-mail or message me here. I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
About Jessi