I have a general practice working with children, adolescents, adults and families.

Section 1
Specific conditions I have experience with include

Section 2
Approaches, Modalities and Techniques

The non-verbal language of Sandplay, art and guided visualizations offers a way to by-pass our defenses to get to the material that needs attention in the present. Our defenses are important - they protect us from harm (perceived or real) - however, over time, they can become restrictive and self limiting. These expressive and symbolic techiques offer information about the psyche - helping us identify what each of us needs to heal in a manner that is direct and non-threatening. The beauty of these techniques is that they can be used in conjunction with verbal psychotherapy. This can accelerate the therapeutic process - sometimes leading to faster and more long lasting results.

Jungian Sandplay Therapy:
Jungian Sandplay Therapy as developed by Jung protégé Dora Kalf works on the symbolic level and as such Sandplay is able to gently access unconscious material quickly. What makes Jungian Sandplay therapy so exciting is how it captures the essential elements of the inner landscape (or psyche), bringing to the surface that which needs attention and/or healing in the present. The tray itself, held as a safe and protected space by the therapist, creates the vessel for healing, revelation and bridging.

In Sandplay therapy, the client manipulates miniatures within a tray of sand - using these symbolic images to tell stories or create images in a manner that is similar to an active state of dreaming.

This type of therapy is used as a clinical treatment by itself or as an adjunct to verbal psychotherapy. It is appropriate for adults and children.

Click here to view a Frontiers online show on Jungian Sandplay in School Settings.

Gestalt Therapy:
While there are several schools of thought within Gestalt Therapy, some basic principles apply across the board. Gestalt is a present based therapy using "what is stuck" now as guideposts for where the therapy can focus. Additionally, Gestalt therapy uses the body as a source of wisdom, helping to identify and "give voice" to unexpressed needs, thoughts and feelings.

In my post graduate training, I pursued a Gestalt Dialogical model that is viewed as a relational approach - meaning that the therapeutic relationship itself is identified as a powerful vehicle for healing and recovery work. Here recovery is used in its broader sense: recovery of an authentic sense of self.

See http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/abstract/106571597/ABSTRACT for the most recent research in the field.

Guided Visualizations:
Guided Visualizations provide yet another vehicle for direct inner work often by-passing the defense systems. Guided Visualizations can reclaim split off aspects of self as well as emotions that are stuck and rigid. The power of this technique lies in its ability to get to the source. In fact, guided visualizations can retrieve childhood experiences using visual imagery, body based sensations and symbols. Guided Visualizations can also be used to ameliorate physical symptoms. They are used to invoke a relaxation response as well as provide imagery that may foster healing.

Stress Reduction:
Relaxation and stress reduction exercises can be taught and used to reduce stress and anxiety and to ameliorate disturbing moods. Stress and anxiety are often triggered automatically - these exercises interrupt the automatic response giving the client other tools and choices to use instead. When symptoms are reduced, deeper material can be accessed, thereby accelerating the therapeutic process.

Art Therapy:
Various art materials are available for use including clay, paint, colored pencils, markers and pastels. Art provides another "way in" that is gentle, symbolic and therapeutic. There are many ways to incorporate art into therapy, including both directive and open ended "exercises". In my work, I have used the visual arts as well as writing as a means of gaining insight, releasing emotion, and (shifting) destructive behaviors and patterns.