Psychotherapist

Profile:

I have practiced as a psychotherapist since 1987.  Originally trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy in New York City,  my work has evolved to include contemporary approaches from relational psychoanalysis, inter-subjectivity and reasearch from attachment and mentalization based theories.  I have introduced contemporary approaches in psychotherapy to the frontier minded community of rural Alaska - in clinical settings as well as via the radio and professional trainings.   I continue to offer phone and SKYPE sessions to those seeking psychotherapy or clinical supervision who live at a distance from my office in Eugene Oregon.

Specialties

Psychotherapy for individuals, couples and adolescents who have experienced a wide range of relationship issues, including transitions, unresolved trauma and loss.

Clinical supervision for interns and psychotherapists.

Consultations for schools, physicians and community groups seeking assistance in conflict resolution and continuing education.

Clinical Approach

My relational style is warm, direct and guided by an empathic stance.  Contemporary research and clinical practice acknowledge the importance of the therapeutic relationship in bringing about recovery from stressful life events.  In the process of therapy, sometimes insecurities, anxieties or other tensions may be triggered by my responses or as you  formulate new ideas.

 I encourage people  to discuss how they are affected by experiences in sessions.  This will help us develop an accurate understanding about how the way we relate helps you to feel more or less open. 

I enjoy supporting the growth of one's capacity to mentalize that is " to think about thinking" or to "know one's own mind".  Assisting people to expand their capacity to be reflective vs. reactive is essential for dealing with emotional and physical pain.  Identifying destructive patterns in relationships can reverse negative cycles of hopelessness, fear and depression into hope, empowerment and change.

 Education and Clinical Training:

  • 2009- Mentalization Based Therapy – Anna Freud Centre, London England
  • 2008- Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) Adult Attachment Interview Training Institute – June Sroufe PhD and Sonia Gojman de Milan, PhD
  • 1987- Certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy -  Greenwich Institute for Psychotherapy and Counseling, New York City
  • 1984- Master of Social Work – New York University, New York City

Professional Affiliations:

  • National Association of Social Work
  • International Association of Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy (IARPP)
  • Pain Society of Oregon

Professional Activities:

  • Psychotherapist since 1987
  • Producer of Shrink Rap radio show at khns.org.  Through live dramatic acts communication styles and relational patterns are explored through the lens of relational psychoanalysis, attachment and mentalization perspectives
  • Supervisor for psychotherapists, social workers, counselors
  • Pro-bono Psychotherapist and clinical supervisor at the Center for Community Counseling - Eugene, Oregon

Ongoing Studies 

  • Integrating attachment theory, relational psychoanalysis, intersubjectivity and mentalization in  psychotherapy
  • Integration of systems theory and psycho-education within the community
  • Rural Psychotherapy

 

Presentations

 

  • Jewish Influences in Psychoanalytic Thinking, Temple Beth Israel, Eugene Oregon, March 2012
  • New Frontiers in Relational Psychoanalysis: Shrink Rap on the air, Mentalizing in the last frontier,   IARPP Conference NYC, March 2012
  • Integration of Mentalizing, Attachment and Relational Approaches in Psychotherapy in Rural Alaska - NASW, Anchorage Alaska, 2011
  • Interpersonal Communication - Volunteer training for Hospice of Haines Alaska 2006-2010
  • Attachment in the Classroom – Continuing education class for teachers and clinicians, Haines Alaska,  2008
  • Consultations and In-Service Training for the Haines Borough School District 2006-2010
  • Clinical Applications of the Adult Attachment Interview -Center for Community Counseling -  Eugene, Oregon, 2011,  NASW -  Juneau Alaska, 2006