My therapeutic approach is eclectic and I draw from whatever tools I feel will best suit each client's needs. Among these are Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Imago, sexuality, trauma, BDSM and kink, polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships, and IFS.
What to Expect in Therapy
People come to therapy for many reasons; all of them valid. In working together we will spend our initial sessions getting to know you and establishing a focus of treatment. We will discuss your history, your present joys and stressors, your strengths and areas of work, and identify your goals. We will then continue to move toward excavating a deeper understanding of you and those factors improving or inhibiting your goals. Often in the course of therapy unexpected life events require immediate attention and can provide unique opportunities for personal work and reflection. I will draw from and educate you on various therapeutic tools and techniques as appropriate. Some therapeutic work is life long while some only requires a few sessions and there is no one right way to take a therapeutic journey. In addition, all information discussed in therapy is confidential with the exception of when the client is a danger to themselves or others or in the case of reported abuse or neglect of a child or elderly person, in which case I am a mandated reporter.
Your First Appointment
For our first appointment, please take some time to meditate on what brings you to therapy, what you would like to work on, any previous therapeutic experiences, and anything else it is important for me to know about you and your life. It is always exciting to meet a new client and I encourage you to ask me any questions you may have! Many people feel it is helpful to write out what they wish to share with me beforehand. You will also need to fill out some forms prior to our first appointment as well as make payment arrangements. I will then schedule you and send you a link to our teletherapy meeting. Please note that I have a 48 hour cancelation policy. The cost of a session applies to appointments canceled after 48 hours of the appointment or not attended.
What is Non-Monogamy?
Non-monogamy can refer to several ways of conducting multiple sexual and/or romantic relationships alongside one another. Here we are referring to consensual non-monogamy of all types including all forms of polyamory, swinging, and other forms of open relationship. Although I also work with individuals and couples who identify as monogamous or who have experienced cheating in their relationship, I like to make a clear distinction. No matter what type(s) of relationship(s) one is engaging in, it is important to have a clear, explicit, and ever evolving relationship contract. In our work together, we may delve into improving your relationship(s) or simply affirm your relationship style as a natural and positive extension of your identity.
What is Gottman Method Couples Therapy?
The Gottman Method is a couples therapy approach in which I have been trained at levels 1 and 2. Although this method does not represent my sole approach to couples counseling, I utilize its concepts and tools frequently. It is based on the research and work of Drs. John and Julie Gottman, and includes a specific assessment and interventions based in their Sound Relationship House theory. As stated by The Gottman Institute, the therapy focuses on the areas of "friendship, conflict management, and the creation of shared meaning". The Gottman Institute goes on to say that, "The goals of Gottman Method Couples Therapy are to disarm conflicting verbal communication, increase intimacy, respect, and affection, remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy in conflicting situations, and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship." You can learn more about this method at the Gottman Institute website: Gottman.com
What Does it Mean to be Kink Identified?
Kink is an umbrella term for a multitude of non-conventional sexual practices. Kink often enhances partner intimacy and can include such consensual power exchange practices as BDSM (bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, sadism and masochism). In any kink exchange, consent is the difference between relationship enhancement and assault or abuse. Thus, communication is as essential for a healthy kinky relationship as it is for any other. As a kink allied therapist, I am supportive of any consensual practice which the client feels enriches their life.
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy can refer to any type of therapeutic topic having to do with sexuality and physical intimacy; including but not limited to a relationship context and in both individual and couples counseling. Although the majority of my training has centered on non-monogamy, kink, and trauma, I have worked with a number of therapeutic focuses including compulsive sexual behavior, sexual function, and sexual intimacy. As part of therapy we may also work on sexuality education, building trust and intimacy in a relationship, enhancing a relationship, and improving communication. I am also a sex positive therapist and encourage clients to discuss their sexuality as openly as they would any other topic. I hope to help my clients build positivity toward themselves in their sexuality and to accept the ways in which sexuality can be adjacent to many aspects of self and relationship. I do not pathologize aspects of sexuality which are working well for a client. In addition, I welcome and encourage all sexual orientations to my practice and am happy to either focus on this as a major part of treatment or to simply provide a safe and identity affirming space. Sex therapy is entirely a talk therapy and does not in any way involve touch or physical intimacy on the part of the therapist and inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated.
About Telehealth
For those who have never experienced video based therapy, it can feel daunting to begin. Most clients tell me that they find teletherapy to be a relaxing and convenient experience which does not impede our ability to forge a connection. I utilize a secure, HIPAA compliant platform. You will need access to a strong internet connection in a private space, free from interruption, and within Massachusetts. If you are a couple, you will both need to be present in the same location.
Payment
I currently only accept out of pocket payment. I charge $200 per 45 minute session.
Availability
I am currently available for appointments on most afternoons. This may evolve over time.
Do I really have to live in Massachusetts?
Yes, unfortunately there is no licensure reciprocity between state lines and therefore all therapy must be conducted within Massachusetts despite its remote nature.
