My Approach

A Bridge Between Science and Spirituality

I work within my clients' own spiritual beliefs rather than imposing my own. My approach combines the solid foundation of evidence-based treatment with spiritual wisdom that helps you see yourself and the world in transformative ways.

The Evolution of Evidence-Based Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy has evolved significantly over the years. Earlier forms of CBT focused primarily on challenging and changing negative thought patterns. Exposure therapy, which I use extensively in my practice, is one of these foundational approaches that helps people overcome fear-based disorders by gradually facing what they're afraid of in a safe, controlled way.

More recently, CBT has naturally incorporated concepts from Buddhist psychology, including mindfulness, non-judgment, non-attachment, and self-compassion. These newer approaches focus on changing your relationship with thoughts and feelings rather than trying to change their content.

Mindfulness develops present-moment awareness that allows flexible engagement with experience without becoming fixated on specific outcomes.

Non-judgment cultivates the capacity to observe thoughts and emotions without immediately categorizing them as good or bad, which enhances emotional regulation and cognitive flexibility.

Non-attachment teaches you to hold your thoughts and feelings lightly, reducing the unnecessary suffering that comes from clinging to particular outcomes.

Self-compassion offers a healing alternative to harsh self-criticism, allowing you to treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a dear friend.

Together, these practices create a foundation for lasting peace and resilience, even during life's most challenging moments.

Going Deeper: Spiritual Integration

But I go beyond traditional CBT by integrating deeper spiritual concepts that can transform how you see yourself and the world. One idea that many people find helpful is exploring the possibility that everything is connected through one universal consciousness. This awareness can be experienced as a sense of oneness with all things, where the boundaries between yourself and the world around you begin to dissolve.

I often invite clients to play with the idea that the things they admire or are irritated by in others are also qualities within themselves. This perspective can be incredibly freeing because it helps you practice compassion for both yourself and others. It also helps you understand that you have creative power in shaping your experience because you are not separate from the world around you - you are an active participant in creating it.

Addressing Common Concerns

Many people on the spiritual path worry that evidence-based approaches like exposure therapy - the specific CBT method designed to target maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that maintain anxiety over time - will somehow manifest their fears. I understand how to skillfully integrate the wisdom of both approaches and guide people to see how these practices are not contradictory but actually complement each other beautifully.

The spiritual approach helps people step into a perspective of empowerment rather than seeing themselves as victims of life's circumstances. It helps them recognize the creative power they possess to shape their experience. When you understand that you are part of universal consciousness, you begin to see that your thoughts, feelings, and actions are not separate from the world around you - they are actively participating in creating your reality.

This understanding is completely aligned with CBT principles, where learning how thoughts, feelings and behaviors interact helps you view challenging situations more clearly and respond to them in more effective ways. Both approaches teach people to act in alignment with how they want to feel rather than waiting to feel better before taking meaningful action.

How We Work Together

In our sessions, you'll experience both scientifically-proven techniques and spiritual practices that resonate with your beliefs. This might include:

• Using exposure therapy while incorporating spiritual concepts of trust and surrender

• Practicing mindfulness from both psychological and spiritual perspectives

• Exploring how your spiritual beliefs can support your healing rather than conflict with treatment

• Learning to see challenges as opportunities for growth and empowerment

• Developing both practical coping skills and deeper spiritual resources

The Integration Process

Whether you're working through anxiety and trauma, integrating psychedelic experiences, or seeking spiritual growth, my approach recognizes that lasting healing happens on multiple levels. We address both your immediate symptoms and the deeper patterns that keep you stuck.

You'll learn to trust your own inner wisdom while having practical, research-backed tools to manage symptoms and create lasting positive change. This isn't about choosing between science and spirituality - it's about discovering how they work together to create the most complete healing possible.

Your Unique Path

Every person's journey is different, and I meet you exactly where you are. Whether you're deeply religious, spiritual but not religious, or just curious about deeper meaning, I'll work within your beliefs and comfort level. The goal is always to help you discover your own unique path to healing that honors both your practical needs and your spiritual nature.

Ready to explore this integrative approach? Contact me to discuss how science and spirituality can work together in your healing journey.