Some Ideas Influenced by Narrative Therapy and Postmodernism:

There are infinite narratives that hold true at any given time. As the Narrative Therapy community likes to say, our lives are multi-storied.

We exist in innumerable contexts, and each context (or contexts) offers a different lens or frame through which we can tell a story. Different parts of us can tell different stories, as well. They can all be valid. Sometimes it is not a question of “either/or” being true or applicable, but rather “and/both.”

Language and words matter. We define ourselves and our worldview with our words. How do we talk to ourselves? Who or what does our inner-critic or inner-saboteur sound like? Sometimes the layers of “shoulds” in life make us feel trapped, but therapy can offer space to help untangle and deconstruct the “shoulds” to see where they are coming from.

The story and stories we choose to tell ourselves and others - that we take to be true - are not always true, or may be distracting us from other possible truths. Paying attention to and highlighting less visible narratives that align with our truest values can open up new portals and even preferred ways of being.

I refer to my clients as “clients,” not “patients.” Seemingly equivalent terms, but they have quite different energies, dynamics, and connotations. I strive to decenter myself as the “expert" in the room, and seek to listen, collaborate, and understand. No one is ever going to be more of an expert on you and your life than you.

Spelunking (cave-exploring) metaphor:

You and I stand in a cave.  I have never been in this specific cave before, but I am a professional spelunker.  There are many tunnels spoking off this cave in every direction.

You are our leader and decide which tunnel or tunnels we venture into, the pace of the exploration, and when you’d like to explore a different aspect of the cave system.  I will go with you, keep you company, and bring my flashlight.  Perhaps some of my previous experience with spelunking may be helpful, but ultimately this is your cave.

Maybe you fear that there are parts of this cave that you have been protecting other people from ever seeing for your whole life?  Places in the cave that are too dark, too scary, or too craggy for even you? 

Whether you want to explore a great hall of stalactites and stalagmites, or a tiny recess that piques your curiosity, is totally up to you. 

I’m here for it.