Grounded Earth Counseling

I'm a relational therapist blending techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based modalities. Attachment theory and Polyvagal theory also inform my approach. I'm happy to answer any questions you might have about these in a free 30 minute consultation, during which I will do my best to give specific examples of how I might approach something, if you are comfortable bringing a sample issue. I specialize in anxiety, relational problems, family of origin concerns, and supporting ADHD, Autistic, and genderqueer clients. My approach is grounded in acceptance, self-compassion, and mindfulness—not deficit or “fixing.” My hope is to support your increased awareness of yourself, and to offer opportunities practice the skills you want to build in an active way in therapy. For many neurodivergent individuals, one broad "recipe" we are likely to work with (given the endless challenges of life in a neurotypical world) is the balancing of action steps with time to recharge. As we move along in pursuit of this balance, there will unavoidable missteps and miscalculations. And it is in your recovery from these that self-confidence, positive momentum, and greater balance can grow! As Einstein famously said, "Failure is success in progress". I'm honored to hold space with you during these vulnerable times, and to invite reflection and celebration on the peaks along the way. I'm also honored to provide deep listening in general- particularly for aspects of your experience that might have previously felt overlooked, misunderstood, or stretched too thin for words. I strive to create a collaborative environment where we will move toward reprocessing of any traumatic material at a pace that is grounded and connected to your larger sense of self. My approach to working with traumatic experiences is holistic and takes into consideration the complex web of needs that exist within you. I offer frequent opportunities to check in with me verbally about how things are going, and to clarify the meaning you are making of your own growth processes. While some aspects of my approach involve a focus on bodily sensation and awareness of feeling states, when working directly with old wounds, communication and cognition are the structures I lean toward. I hold a Master of Arts in Professional Mental Health Counseling from Lewis and Clark College (2020), and a BA in Psychology from the University of Oregon (2003). I have done extra study and training in ACT and mindfulness skills, and I have completed the official Level 1 training in IFS.