Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing is an evidence-based, polyvagal, trauma-informed practice. It is often associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatments and can be useful in moving through specific, targeted events and memories which cause disruption or distress for the client. I trained with the Trauma Therapist Institute (formerly Kase & Co.) and bring an EMDR and polyvagal lens to all my work. I am particularly sensitive to the cultural nuances and systemic impacts of lived experience which are embedded in the nervous system, and which must be met delicately and with respect throughout the process of a truly trauma-informed approach in EMDR work.

Relational Cultural Theory provides the foundation for my interpersonal discourse in the world. Based on the early works of Jean Baker Miller, RCT scholars and practitioners recognize four key characteristics of human experience: 1) connection is an essential factor in growth; 2) people’s responses to life and to one another are inexorably affected by societal and cultural influences; 3) roles of power and privilege are real and consequential; and 4) the means by which these factors affect an individual have an impact on the person’s response to resilience and their response to trauma. RCT creates a progressive and culturally humble framework for exploring human authenticity & traditional, Rogerian unconditional positive regard.

Beginning with the framework of Internal Family Systems (IFS) Parts work which invites us to explore the ways in which we internally (re)create the familiar systems and rules we know, in order to keep ourselves safe in the world; there is room for creative expression and imagination to expand. We are, by nature, problem solvers and story tellers, creating reason and sense to make our worlds feel safe with clear barriers, borders, and familiar feelings. For some, this truth exists in inner-world experience. For others, this is an invalidated life-long reality of neurodivergent awareness. Validating what these parts of our systems are doing to serve us is the first step toward understanding what needs have been unmet and how to begin healing.