PHILOSOPHY AND APPROACH

My approach is rooted in the belief that personal growth and healing unfold most powerfully when the whole person is engaged—mind, body, and spirit. I offer therapeutic guidance that blends mindfulness-based inquiry with somatic, transpersonal, social justice, and harm reduction orientations to support clients in exploring and healing the mind-body connection. Together, we’ll work to uncover patterns that no longer serve you, release energies you are ready to let go of, and discover new ways of being that embody your true self.

Mindfulness-based inquiry is a gentle, open-ended exploration of the present-moment experience that fosters a non-judgmental awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This practice is designed to help clients observe their inner experiences without the need to change or fix them immediately, increasing tolerance for internal experiences and understanding of the unconscious factors that shape behavior.

Somatic therapy involves exploring the body’s sensations, movements, and patterns as a source of wisdom and healing. This approach can be especially helpful for clients experiencing traumatic stress because it supports them in developing tools to regulate the nervous system and release trauma stored in the body.

Transpersonal therapy addresses the spiritual and existential dimensions of the human experience, exploring how a sense of connection to something larger than ourselves—whether that be nature, spirituality, or a feeling of universal oneness—can provide meaning, healing, and transformation. This approach integrates spiritual insight, non-ordinary states of consciousness, and peak experiences, honoring both the material and transcendent aspects of healing.

As a White and cisgender gay/queer man from the rural South, I recognize the ways that systemic oppression and cultural narratives shape our lives and experiences across generations. I hold space for these influences within a social justice framework while creating a therapeutic environment where you can feel safe to explore the developmental, cultural, and intergenerational layers of your healing journey.

Finally, harm reduction is a philosophy that provides a useful framework for the therapeutic exploration of non-ordinary states of consciousness. This approach acknowledges the prevalence of cannabis and psychedelic use in our society and promotes safe, responsible use practices. My services are designed to reduce potential risks and maximize therapeutic benefits through education, integration, and guided experiences.

In addition, I incorporate elements of the following modalities in my therapeutic approach:

  • ISTT is a comprehensive approach that draws on the expertise of leading somatic theories and interventions, such as Inner Relationship Focusing, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Polyvagal Theory, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Somatic Experiencing. By focusing on the mind-body connection, ISTT offers practical techniques for clients to release, process, and integrate past trauma, fostering a sense of safety, presence, and resilience.

  • IFS explores the different “parts” or sub-personalities within us—such as the wounded parts that carry past pain or the protective parts that work to keep us safe. At the core of IFS is the concept of the Self, which is the calm, compassionate, and wise aspect of our consciousness that naturally emerges when we connect mindfully with our wounded or exiled parts. By meeting these parts and helping them feel safe and respected, they can release the painful emotions and beliefs they carry, restoring balance and harmony within.

  • ACT integrates mindfulness techniques with behavioral strategies to help clients become more flexible and resilient in the face of challenges. By learning to accept difficult emotions and experiences rather than resisting them, clients can create more meaningful, value-driven lives. ACT emphasizes living in alignment with one's values, supporting clients in developing psychological flexibility and moving toward their goals with openness and intention.