Therapy Modalities
Hakomi
Hakomi is an experiential, body-centered psychotherapy that integrates psychology (NLP, Focusing, Gestalt, Somatic psychology) and bodywork theories, with principles of mindfulness, non-violence, mind-body-spirit holism from Buddhism and Taoism. Hakomi is a fast and powerful, yet gentle method of discovering and then studying mind/body patterns and core beliefs in the present moment. Mindfulness and other specific techniques are used to help protect the spirit so defences can be explored and then willingly yielded rather than confronted and overpowered. The client can then re-evaluate those parts of his/her belief system that are limiting and develop and incorporate alternative choices and more satisfying options.
Key Components of Hakomi:
Mindfulness is a Buddhist term referring to a state of consciousness in which internal events can be observed without judgment in the present moment. Mindfulness is the heart of Hakomi and experiential therapy.
Experiential therapy involves working in the present moment with “live” experience. Rather than simply talking about a concern, the client explores with the therapist how he or she experiences an issue directly by noticing body sensations, thoughts, feelings and behaviours. In addition, rather than discussing change, the client can take actual risks by trying out new behaviours and beliefs immediately in the session.
A Body-Centered, Somatic Psychotherapy. The body is viewed as a doorway into unconscious, core beliefs that influence how we see ourselves, others and the world around us. Therapists are trained to track subtle nuances in the body.
For more information and reading material go to
http://www.hakomiinstitute.com
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)
EMDR integrates many effective psychotherapies (psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, interpersonal, experiential, and body-centred therapies) into structured protocols. EMDR is a clinically validated treatment for distress associated with traumatic memories. During EMDR the client attends to emotionally disturbing material while simultaneously focusing on an external stimulus such as lateral eye movements or stimuli including hand-tapping and audio stimulation. Traumatic memories can include small-t traumas or big-T traumas (e.g., rape, war). Little-t traumas are minor events from childhood, such as being teased by one’s peers or disparaged by one’s parent that can result in personality problems and become the basis of current dysfunctional reactions.
For more information go to: www.emdria.org
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a simple way of experiencing life which has its roots in Buddhist meditation. It refers to developing awareness in the present moment, without judging or evaluating your experience. When we are mindful, we accept whatever comes up uncritically. We become curious, allowing whatever comes into our awareness to teach us more about itself and about ourselves. Mindfulness allows us to focus without distraction, without forgetfulness, and with continuity of awareness upon whatever we choose to attend to. In contrast, mindlessness involves automatic, habitual thoughts and actions. Mindfulness helps us get off automatic pilot and experience life more fully and with more presence. Practicing mindfulness can support relaxation and the development of inner peace and balance.
Mindful meditation is the formal practice of mindfulness, also known as vipassana or insight meditation. It embraces attitudes such as patience, acceptance, non-judgment, and non-striving. Research has shown that through consistent practice of meditation one can reduce the effects of stress on mind and body, increase a sense of control over one’s life, and improve mood, immunity and coping skills.
Interpersonal-Neurobiology
This field of psychology explores how therapy can influence brain patterns and how life impacts the brain mechanisms and pathways. It is based on the research of neuroplasticity which shows we can re-wire the brain and develop new neurons and new connections. Mindfulness or mindsight (Dr. Siegel) is a key ingredient in re-wiring the brain.
Dr. Dan Siegel is the pioneer of applying the principles of interpersonal neurobiology to promote compassion, kindness, resilience, and well-being in our personal lives, our relationships, and our communities. He states that “at the heart of interpersonal neurobiology and mindsight is the concept of “integration” which entails the linkage of different aspects of a system—whether they exist within a single person or a collection of individuals. Integration is seen as the essential mechanism of health as it promotes a flexible and adaptive way of being that is filled with vitality and creativity. The ultimate outcome of integration is harmony.”
Exercise Psychology
The field Exercise Psychology focuses on understanding the determinants of exercise adherence as well as the benefits of exercise on physical and mental health. By applying my counselling skills and theories of motivation and behaviour change, I can provide practical psychological interventions to promote exercise and health behaviour adherence. In turn, I hope to support my clients to achieve a more optimal level of health and well-being.
Education/Training/Theories & Techniques
MSc. Applied Psychology (Counselling Psychology) & Kinesiology (Health & Exercise Psychology)
Hakomi Experiential Body-Centered Psychotherapy
EMDR Level I & II (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)
Attachment/Developmental Psychology
Mindfulness
Interpersonal-Neurobiology
Polyvagal Theory
Existential-Humanistic
Mindfullness-Based Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
Imagery
Solution-Focused
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)
Areas of Practice:
Individuals, Adolescents and their Families & Groups
Stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, eating disorders, self-harm behaviours, trauma/PTSD, unresolved/recurrent issues from the past, personal development, exercise psychology (lifestyle, weight management, exercise adherence).