Joanna Morse (she/her/hers)

I have been for many trainings specifically about PTSD or applicable to PTSD. It can be difficult to make much progress with PTSD purely through talking about trauma, which is why I use a lot of interventions to calm the nervous system to help individuals feel safe again. I believe it is very important that the decision as to whether we discuss the traumatic event(s) themselves is up to the client, as to whether it feels manageable or beneficial.

This has been the main focus of my work since I started doing private practice in 2014. I very much enjoy working with people to discern their identity or what transition steps might feel important for them. I affirm all gender identities and believe that gender is self-defined. I write referral letters for hormones and surgeries and lead a therapy group for transgender adults. I consider it a privilege to provide assistance to people seeking to express their authentic selves.

DBT is often touted as the treatment of choice for personality disorders; however, it is tremendously helpful for many issues. I do not use full model DBT but teach many of the skills and use chaining as a tool to delve deeper into problem behaviors. It amazes me what insights and transformations come from that intervention. The DBT approach of authenticity has given me permission to challenge clients in supportive ways that lead to growth more quickly than with other modalities.

The search for happiness is usually frustrating and elusive because happiness is a feeling that comes and goes. If you focus on finding meaning, you are much more likely to succeed. I work with clients to discern their own values and help them adhere to those values. Life as a human being is inherently limited, and it is hard to accept those limits; however, choosing from among the available options helps you feel more in charge of your own life.

Did you know you have parts within you with various roles that help you function in the world? Some of them get into extreme positions that are well-intentioned but no longer serve you well. IFS is about connecting with your parts, getting to know them, building trust, understanding what they need, updating them on current life circumstances, and helping them heal. I am excited to offer full IFS, having completed Level 1 training. Clients who were stuck are now making progress with IFS.