Services
About My Clients
Many of my clients have one or more marginalized identity. Many are stressed by a society that tells us we are not worthy of self-compassion. Many have experienced more overt trauma. A lot of people are nervous about taking meds for various reasons.
My Background and Approach
I use a combination of intake questionnaires and conversation to understand your story and most bothersome symptoms. There is a lot that medication can't fix, but it can help you feel grounded or energized enough to take action in your life. When you aren't using all of your energy for basic function, you can turn it toward healing work. I also help people find movement, mindfulness, and other practices that nourish the healing process. The first part of my career was in primary care, and it gave me a profound appreciation for the mind-body connection. The way mental health shows up in the body is complex, and super important. I have years of experience prescribing for parts of life that can feel scary to get help for such as substance use disorder, gender affirming care, and HIV.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
Some of my core beliefs are: -People deserve kindness and respect on their health journeys. -We can’t only suppress disease, we have to cultivate wellness. -Curiosity about difference is essential. -People who receive compassion are more able to be kind to others. I also am a big believer in the power of connecting with the natural world for healing. That can mean learning from plant science and positive reinforcement animal training. It can mean taking a walk outside, or considering evolutionary reasons for our brains' behavior. I personally am inspired about patience and resilience when I garden or help my rescue dogs feel safe in the world. Aaaand, I am a big believer in humor and cussing to get through life.