NutriPsychTherapy-Finding Balance Between Body + Soul

What is your approach with therapy?

-I use a Jungian approach with my therapy, meaning I follow the teaching prescribed by C. G. Jung.  I try to provide a space where the client can explore aspects of their life, without interjecting too much of my own thoughts or ideas.  I merely allow a reflection for the client, what I see which may benefit the client.  I also try to provide opportunities to hold tension between the opposites, that allows the client to better understand the "stuck" feeling in their life and what internal / external forces maybe playing a role in their problem.  

-Another aspect I use which has been received well by clients is dream-work.  Our minds store memories and information which are valuable tools to use in our self discovery.  My clients take a few notes in the early hours of the morning to help remember the content of their dreams.  We then explore aspects of these dreams for content and meaning.  Who are the people in your dreams?  How can you learn from them?  And what is your unconscious trying to tell you?  Rich symbolism and understanding can come when we relax the Ego and allow unconscious material to float to the top through night and day dreams.

Do you provide Internet based counseling?

-I understand the most ideal situation is when a client comes into my office for therapy.  However, I recognize the need for competent well educated mental health professionals to provide services throughout all parts of the U.S.  If you live in an area where you are unsatisfied with the mental health providers or would like to receive service from me via Internet we can discuss the Internet approach and if this would be a good fit for you.

Do you assign homework?  

-This question sounds rather cliche, however my clients have found great success in moving towards their therapeutic goals when they are able to work on aspects of their life outside the therapy session.  Often times I will give homework that is associated with the difficulties of the week or the content which has risen during the session.  I view homework as an extension of therapeutic services.  I also recognize homework can be difficult, however rewarding when time is invested in completing the task.

What types of problems do you work with? 

-I work with a variety of problem sets with clients.  The list can be found to the right under the Therapy Specialities sections.

How do you integrate nutrition into your practice?

-Having spent most of my undergraduate coursework dealing with the human body, I developed a passion for the human body and the inner workings of the mind.  I also noticed a lack of interest in the traditional medical model to integrate nutrition into mental health.  The traditional medical model seemed to say, "More is always better" or "If this doesn't work then we'll just add 3 more medications.  That should balance it out."  I came to realize that a lot of medications were prescribed unnecessarily and I questioned the balance between the benefit and side affects of the medications.  I understand that some individuals need medications for more severe issues, however I see a far greater benefit when elements are brought into the body through a less toxic and more natural approach.

-I recommend supplements from Biotics Research Corporation for my client's treatment.  Each person is built biochemically different and some supplement lines work better for some than others.  However, supplements in general, are a healthier way to integrate elements or plant bodies not normally consumed through diet, that could be beneficial in re-balnacing the biochemistry of the body and mind.  I can suggest various supplements to aid in your mental health, and if additional help is needed a referral can be provided for a Naturopath Doctor or Psychiatrist.    

What is the difference between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, and Psychotherapist?

-A Psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor (MD). A Psychiatrist attends 4 years of medical school and works as an intern for 3-5 years based on their specialty.  Psychiatrists utilize their knowledge of biochemistry and the human body to prescribe medication that will be a good fit for the need of the client.  Psychiatrists typically work in hospitals or private practices. 

-A Psychologist either has a doctoral degree in Philosophy (PhD) or a in Psychology (PsyD).  Psychologists attend graduate school for 4-6 years, in which a 1-year full time clinical internship is included.  Psychologists concentrate mostly on psychological testing, research and treatment design, therapy, scholarship, or publishing of literature.  Psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, universities, and private practice.

-A Psychotherapist is a general term for Therapists who have a Masters degree (MA or MS) in Social Work (MSW), Mental Health Counseling (MHC), Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT).  Psychotherapist can diagnosis mental illness,  practice therapy and teach in some programs at the graduate level.  Psychotherapists work in community mental health, private practice, hospitals, and universities.

Do you accept health insurance?

-Currently, I do not accept insurance.  If you would like to use your insurance coverage to pay for therapy, I can provide the necessary documents so you can receive reimbursement from your insurance provider.  I have come to realize between the rising cost of health care, out of pocket co-pays made by the client, and limited sessions provided by insurance companies, a sliding scale fee is the best option for all parties involved.

How much is each therapy visit?

-My hourly fee $100 for a 50-minute individual session. In an effort to make therapy more affordable to those who can not afford my full rate, I provide a sliding scale based off 8% of the client’s weekly gross pay, up to $100. For example, if an individual were to make $3,000 a month, each session would be roughly $60.  I create flexibility within these numbers because I realize not everyone has insurance that will cover the cost of their therapy visits. 

How many visits will I need to attend therapy?

-I do not set parameters on the number of sessions one should attend therapy.  Generally, I would say the number of therapy sessions should be as many or as little until you feel satisfied with the outcome from the therapy.  However, I do encourage clients to visit with me for 3 sessions to determine if our therapeutic alliance is a good fit.  Typically clients come to see me for long-term psychotherapy. 

Where is your office located?

-My office is located on the first floor of the Pioneer Building of Downtown Seattle.  The address and driving directions can be found on the Contact page.