My practice invites curiosity both inward and outward. Think of a magnifying glass versus a telescope. Inward curiosity magnifies our ideas about ourselves, our own thoughts and emotions, and the stories we hold dear. Like observing the cosmos, outward curiosity explores the possibilities of others and gently challenges how systems work, examining where different stories conflict and where they come together.
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While my style is eclectic, I consider myself a “systemic” and “narrative” therapist. I believe that the systems we are in play a profound role in how we experience identity, and that our sense of well-being largely comes from nurturing community and feelings of social belonging. When there is disharmony in our community, in our families, in our relationships, or in our work cultures, we often experience disharmony in our sense of self. Therapy, then, invites self-exploration and encourages us to try out different roles or to make waves within those systems—“be the change” as they say.

Similarly, a sense that there is something wrong within us can lead to deeper examination of the cultural messages we take in, of the quality of our relationships, and of the language we are using to evaluate our problems. Narrative therapy swoops in here to help clients pinpoint their values and the ways their lived experiences illustrate those values, allowing them to move forward with confidence and embrace what is meaningful to them.

There is some risk with beginning therapy. The process may feel awkward or intimidating at first, but it can be a collaborative adventure, trying out new roles and ways of relating to the world. Through language, we can retell our stories and learn to see ourselves in brand new ways.