What I do. Why I do it.
A Different Approach to Counseling
Compassion. Well-Being. Liberation.
My Therapeutic Approach
When I say that my approach to therapy is compassion focused, well-being centered, and liberation oriented, this is far from being just a list of virtuous buzzwords. Each of these three concepts represents a specific set of tools that are essential to how we will guide the therapeutic process. Therapy is conducted through a therapeutic relationship, and that relationship is the setting where transformation and potential healing take place. Unlike a surgeon, a therapist does not use physical tools such as scalpels, bandages, imaging devices, and the like. Instead, it is the therapist’s “use of self” that enables the therapeutic process to unfold. The therapist’s mindset is therefore essential to the therapeutic process, as well as the foundation of the social mentalities that underpin the relationship in which this process unfolds. This is what I mean when I say that compassion, well-being, and liberation are the sets of tools that define therapy.
Compassion.
The "compassion focused" approach is linked to the core therapeutic model of Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT). Here, compassion is related to sensitivity to one’s own suffering and that of others, accompanied by a corresponding motivation to act in ways that prevent and alleviate that suffering. CFT is grounded in an expanding scientific foundation related to the key psychosocial processes involving suffering and distress, and to how the development of a compassionate mind provides us with the necessary biopsychosocial tools to respond to and alleviate that suffering. Well-Being.
The “well-being centered” approach is rooted in scientific knowledge regarding communal orientation, which is our motivation to center mutual care for the needs and well-being of others and oneself. There is a clear overlap in a compassionate mind and a communal orientation, though while compassion is about addressing suffering and distress, well-being is commonly understood as more than simply the absence of distress. Centering well-being means nurturing emotional awareness, resilience, positive relationships, self-acceptance, and a sense of purpose, all of which are factors contribute to overall mental health and life satisfaction.Liberation.
The “liberation oriented” approach gives insight into how suffering and well-being function within the social contexts surrounding our lives and therapy. If therapy is not directed towards liberation, it will merely adapt us to the existing oppressive and exploitative power structures. While therapy alone will not bring about full liberation, a liberatory therapeutic process seeks to develop skills and tools related to autonomy, empowerment, and transformation that support us in confronting and overcoming social structures with the understanding that our liberation is interdependent with the liberation of others. All three process are interdependent, interrelated, and reinforcing. While none take priority over the others, the order here is intentional. As we address our suffering we become better able to act be communally oriented and care for the well-being of others, and through caring for the well-being of others we can develop the solidarity necessary for collective liberation. You might also think of developing all three as a form of psychosocial cross training for our minds, with skills and tools developed in one helping us to better meet the motivational needs of the others and contributing to overall psychosocial well-being.
Compassion Focused Therapy
Compassion Focused Therapy is a modern, twenty-first century counseling modality. As an integrative therapy, CFT takes a biopsychosocial approach that recognizes that our mental well-being is interconnected with our physical and social well-being. While CFT has a foundation in Buddhist philosophy, it is no less of a rigorous, science-informed therapy drawing on evolutionary psychology, neurology, human development, attachment theory, and social psychology.
Compassionate Mind Training
Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) is a mindfulness-based skills-building practice that is integrated into CFT. While CFT is meant for people with significant mental health struggles, such as anxiety and depression, CMT can benefit anyone seeking a reduction in stress and greater well-being. CMT includes mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises, imagery work, and other skills to foster greater body, mind, and social well-being.
Rates
Individual CFT
Individual weekly online counseling utilizing Compassion Focused Therapy. Sliding scale based on income. (California & New York)
45 mins | $75-$300 | Get started
CMT couching
Individual weekly online coaching utilizing Compassionate Mind Training.
60 mins | $250 | Get started
Gender Letters
Single evaluation session for the purpose of obtaining letters for gender affirming medical procedures. Pay-what-you-can. (California & New York)
60 mins | $150; $20-$300 | Get started
