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What's with the name "Brain Flower"?
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Brain Flower to me is a nod to the phrase “brain power.” I believe there is great power in blooming and growing into more of who we were designed to be.
What is the best part of being a counselor?
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I feel very blessed to be present in another’s story for a season and to do the sacred work of entering relationships centered on suffering. Being a witness to hope, healing, and triumph over adversity is a wonderful experience. I love celebrating clients' wins with them! I am learning more and more how truly strong people are and how joy can be found in the most unlikely places. I am honestly inspired and frequently challenged by the bravery of clients as they lean into and steward their pain.
What is your counseling style?
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I strive to personalize my counseling approach to serve clients according to their unique story and needs. However, I do have some core modalities I work from. I am a S.A.F.E. (somatic and attachment focused) EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained clinician. EMDR is a therapy originally established to treat trauma, but today can be used to treat a wide variety of presenting issues. Another modality I utilize is Attachment Theory, which considers how early attachment styles impact adult relationships. I also draw from Family Systems Theory which focuses on family of origin dynamics and multigenerational patterns. Additionally, I have completed training in DNMS (Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy), a parts work approach designed to nurture and meet the unmet needs of wounded child parts. Lastly, I enjoy supporting clients through integrating emotional regulation tools and mindfulness practices.
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How soon might someone start to notice change through counseling?
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Each person's journey is different and the pace of change can be shaped by several factors. These include the experiences and wounds being explored, how deeply their rooted, how supported clients feel in carrying their work from sessions into everyday life, and whether the therapeutic relationship feels like a really good fit. Many people begin to notice meaningful shifts within the first four to six sessions.
What counseling related topics will be included in this blog?
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I have a special interest in serving clients who have experienced trauma, so a number of entries will include information surrounding trauma informed care. I appreciate seeing relationships through an attachment lens, so this perspective will color a number of my posts. I would like to write about a variety of topics such as anxiety, perinatal mental health, couples-related issues, stress, co-dependency, restorative self-care, grief, and more. I'll also share highlights and personal take-aways from some of my favorite reads.
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What encouragement would you give to someone who is considering starting the counseling process?
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In the words of Albus Dumbledore, “Numbing the pain for a while will make it worse when you finally feel it.” I cannot deny that counseling is a challenging process. I often share with clients that some sessions are like going to battle in the deepest pain points of your life. Often, the hardest part is showing up. And once you do, you may be surprised by how much strength you discover within yourself. The freedom on the other side of your brave healing work is so worth it!
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