The practice of mindfulness has informed my work. I spent many years practicing meditation in different parts of the world. It changed who I was and my life in such a positive and profound way and it has informed my practice. I integrate mindfulness into my work as a way to strengthen your relationship to yourself and others. I would describe mindfulness as the practice of increasing awareness of what one is experiencing in the moment. Mindfulness practice has been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety and PTSD, and increase qualities such as self- love and self-compassion.

Creative expression also changed my life and informed my work.  I remember engaging in creative plays, such as making art or playing with toy characters’ at a young age and feeling alive, focused, and happy. When I created art or built things as a child, I felt powerful because I was able to make new objects that came from my imagination. The practice of creative expression in therapy works in a similar way: it supports individuals at any age in discovering who they are, and allows for someone to feel a sense of  power from forming new perspectives. Creativity offers an indirect way to approach challenges and  it helps someone gain a sense of power over life’s challenges. In a session, I use creative expression in an organic way, it can be integrated into discussions, or it can involve artistic expression such as role play, drawing, movement etc..