I try actively to create a safe environment in which you can explore all your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.  Together, we can work to place these in a deeper context by exploring facets of your personality, your personal and family history, wider cultural and historical factors, and the stressors you are facing at present. We may also explore aspects of your past experiences and how these shape the way you feel and what you do in the here and now. This process can help you develop a richer connection to your sense of self, with a greater awareness of your needs and wishes as well as greater appreciation for your areas of strength and resilience. The newfound understanding can help facilitate new ways of relating to yourself and to important others in your life, and to feeling more alive, engaged, and authentic. In this way, therapy can lead to long-term improvement and changes, even after the therapy itself has ended.