FAQ
What can I expect in our first session?
Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. I'll ask about what brought you to therapy, what you're hoping to work on, and a bit about your history and current life circumstances. This is also your chance to ask me questions, get a feel for my approach, and see if we're a good fit. There's no pressure to share more than feels comfortable—we'll move at your pace.
How long does therapy take?
This really depends on your goals and what you're working through. Some people benefit from short-term work focused on a specific issue, while others find value in longer-term therapy that explores deeper patterns and relationship dynamics. We'll check in regularly about how things are feeling and what makes sense for you. Therapy is collaborative, and you're always in the driver's seat about the duration and frequency of our work together.
What's your approach to therapy?
I practice relational integrative psychotherapy, which means I draw from multiple approaches based on what serves you best. My foundation is psychodynamic and attachment-focused—we'll pay attention to patterns in your relationships, how past experiences shape present dynamics, and what happens between us in the therapy room. I'm client-led, meaning you guide what we focus on, and I bring curiosity, reflection, and thoughtful questions to help you build greater self-understanding and internal cohesion.
Do you give advice?
Not typically. My role isn't to tell you what to do, but to help you explore your own thoughts, feelings, and values so you can make decisions that feel authentic to you. I might offer perspective, reflect patterns I notice, or pose questions that invite deeper reflection—but ultimately, you're the expert on your own life. I'm here to help you access your own wisdom, not to impose mine.
How do I know if we're a good fit?
Trust your gut. Therapy is deeply personal, and the relationship between therapist and client is one of the most important factors in healing. If something feels off, or if you're not feeling seen or understood, that's important information. I welcome open conversation about how our work together is feeling—including any doubts or concerns. A good therapeutic fit means you feel safe enough to be vulnerable, and that takes time to assess.
What if I don't know what to talk about in session?
That's completely normal and happens more often than you might think. Not knowing what to talk about can actually be meaningful material for us to explore together. Sometimes silence or uncertainty points to something important beneath the surface. Other times, we can use the space to reflect on patterns, check in on how therapy is feeling, or simply sit with whatever's present. There's no "right" way to do therapy—you don't need to perform or have an agenda. Just showing up is enough.
What is psychodynamic therapy, anyway?
Psychodynamic therapy is based on the understanding that much of our emotional life operates beneath conscious awareness. The ways we think, feel, and relate to others are shaped by early experiences—particularly our earliest relationships—that leave lasting imprints on how we see ourselves and navigate the world.
In psychodynamic work, we're curious about patterns: the ways you might repeat certain dynamics in relationships, find yourself stuck in familiar emotional states, or feel pulled toward choices that don't align with who you want to be. We explore not just what you're experiencing, but why—what deeper needs, fears, or unresolved conflicts might be driving these patterns.
This approach also recognizes that our internal world is complex and often contradictory. Parts of us may be in conflict with other parts. We might long for connection while simultaneously pushing people away, or criticize ourselves harshly while yearning for self-acceptance. Psychodynamic therapy creates space to hold these contradictions with curiosity rather than judgment.
The therapeutic relationship itself becomes a meaningful part of the work. How you relate to me, what feelings arise between us, and what patterns show up in our sessions can offer valuable insight into your relational world. Together, we use these observations to deepen your understanding of yourself and expand your capacity for authentic connection.
Ultimately, psychodynamic therapy isn't about quick fixes or symptom management—it's about creating lasting internal change. It's about developing greater self-awareness, integrating disowned parts of yourself, and building the psychological flexibility to respond to life with more freedom and choice.