Joanna Lay (she/her)

Misfits need friends too. You think she too easily pushes people away. She knows that it's a form of protection, and the reason is way more complicated. You think finding a therapist for her will be impossible (she's not a fan of authority). She knows she's highly suspicious of authority, but even more skeptical that anyone will ever really understand her (or wants to). Using her innate strengths, we'll go beneath the surface to understand her why. Therapy with me has no hidden agenda; it is an invitation. Using talk, art, and dreamwork, we explore what usually stays hidden or avoided. We draw awareness to defensive structures and protective patterns to uncover a new way of relating. Using a collaborative container, we explore both the conscious and unconscious realms, leading to a deeper understanding of who she is and how she wants to be in this world. Let's find the real reasons behind her resistance to connection. Schedule a consultation today.

She's much too likable to be without friends. It's become too hard for her to open up to new people. She knows that's not the whole truth...fear of rejection, for sure, but there's a lot more to it. She resides in that sticky place that most teenagers (and adults, too) find themselves--where the fear of being seen and the deep longing to be seen go to battle. It's a terrifying and potentially magical position. Connection is inherently risky. As a parent, it's incredibly hard watching her get in her own way. She knows that this gnawing hunger for connection will only grow stronger and harder to satisfy. With endless curiosity, humor, reflection, and nurturance, we can challenge the places she feels stuck and begin to explore a new path. From the beginning of our work together, she will learn to find safety in connection with others and discover that her incredible, unique self-expression is not in conflict with belonging. Email me today to schedule your initial consultation.