The University of Michigan
Professional Interests:
- Life transitions and adjustment
- Men’s issues
- Self-esteem/self-concept
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Personality issues
- Psychosis and mania
- Legal/forensic issues
Approach to Therapy:
My approach to therapy starts with building a therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, collaboration, and empathy. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, validating, strengths-focused environment where clients feel safe to express and explore their thoughts, feelings, beliefs, experiences, and perspectives. I integrate elements of multiple approaches and techniques based on each individual client’s strengths and needs, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychoeducation.
Approach to Wellness:
For me, wellness begins with balance and ensuring that I have time to participate in activities that promote relaxation or offer an engaging emotional experience. I especially enjoy watching sports (Go Blue!), listening to music, going to concerts and shows, watching movies and tv, playing narrative and sports video games, and taking road trips. I also value humor, learning, curiosity, and healthy spontaneity as important contributors to wellness.
Supervisory Style:
I take a collaborative, developmental, and strengths-focused approach to supervision. I value honest and transparent communication, empathy, meaningful exchange and discussion of ideas, and humor in the supervisory relationship. I encourage ongoing conversations about case conceptualization and any challenges and risks that may emerge in the therapeutic process, and I strive to be mindful of how our own identities, perspectives, and backgrounds impact that process. I believe a supervisory environment that emphasizes professional and personal identity development, continuous self-reflection and internal work, and openness to opportunities for celebration and growth is beneficial for us and our clients.
