Somatic Therapists in Mountain Brook, AL

As a therapist, I strive to hold safe space for you to feel understood and empowered while helping increase authentic self-expression, personal growth, self-awareness, and self-compassion. I am trained in brain-based therapies including Brainspotting and Somatic & Attachment Focused EMDR. These experiential approaches to therapy can be helpful in processing painful emotions and experiences and releasing patterns that no longer serve you. I have a special interest in performance work, grief, anxiety, healing from past hurts/trauma, and finding meaning and purpose in life’s experiences through introspective and mindful therapy work.

I believe that as individuals make sense of their story they begin creating the life they were designed for. I work with adults and couples who want to heal from issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic/ interpersonal violence, relational issues, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, religious trauma, spiritual abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right."

Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.

Just so you know, my eyes don't see the person you used to be, I only see the person you are fighting to become! This defines the work I do daily with my clients. The willingness to face things you want to change, is all it takes. Fear is expected as change comes, however we can BUILD a toolbox of coping skills to diminish the fear & anxiety you have. I will support you with empathy & compassion along the pathway to healing. Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart. Peace in your soul is obtainable, let me help you

Sometimes we get stuck. We may find ourselves repeating familiar patterns that, while fiercely self-protective, no longer serve us in the present moment. We may not be able to find our sense of safety and connection which can leave us feeling hopeless for a brighter future. I want to reassure you that despite what might feel like relentless suffering, there is always hope for healing. Together, we can explore ways to reconnect with the body’s innate wisdom, fostering a sense of safety regardless of past experiences. I specialize in C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain.

I utilize different approaches to help clients achieve self growth and to build better relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore their inner world to accomplish high self worth, competent boundaries, secure attachments, and individual purpose. I explore spiritual, mental, emotional and family dynamics with my clients to get to the root of any life stressors. I hope for my clients to experience inner peace and clarity after each session as they continue towards a journey of self-awareness. Practical and existential practices are utilized to bring about confidence and high self-esteem to achieve the client's goals.

I intimately understand the immense toll that long hours, complex responsibilities, and the ability to analyze and anticipate complex systems can take on physicians, executive leaders and mental health providers. Working across various sectors of healthcare and business administration has provided me with first-hand insight into the unique challenges these professionals face. I have witnessed how burnout and fatigue can insidiously undermine mental health and overall well- being of highly skilled professionals.

I offer support and insight for dealing with life's struggles and assisting in turning challenges into growth opportunities. With over 25 years of experience. I have expertise in treating individuals who struggle with addictions, eating disorders, relationship issues, and traumatic experiences. Whether you work individually, as a family, or in one of my ongoing groups, you have the support and encouragement you deserve. Therapy is about finding the support to help you bridge where you are now and the ability to take the steps you need to become the person you want to become.

Are you feeling out of control in your mind and body in response to the daily pressures, tasks, and demands of being a young adult or college student? Maybe you've just left home for college, or are an upcoming graduate, and juggling it all seems debilitating sometimes. You keep it all together externally, but underneath the surface you are overwhelmed, tired, and burnt out. Maybe the stress of life's biggest transition has left you feeling depressed, anxious, homesick, or disconnected. Perhaps childhood wounds are finally coming to the surface and it feels as though you will never escape the cycle and find a retreat.