EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), developed by Francine Shapiro, is a therapy approach that helps the brain process traumatic memories that feel “stuck.” When childhood trauma isn’t fully processed, it can continue to shape how we see ourselves and the world, often times showing up as anxiety, shame, hypervigilance, or patterns in relationships.

Using gentle, guided bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping), EMDR helps the nervous system reprocess these memories so they feel less overwhelming and less triggering.
Remembering rather than reliving.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines the grounding power of mindfulness with the practical tools of cognitive therapy to help people break free from unhelpful thought patterns. It's especially supportive for those recovering from addiction, healing from childhood trauma, and navigating the unique stressors that can come with being queer or trans. MBCT helps build awareness of thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, creating more space for choice, self-compassion, and healing. It’s about learning to be present with yourself—exactly as you are—with kindness and curiosity.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a powerful, skills-based approach that helps people manage overwhelming emotions, build better relationships, and stay grounded in the present. Originally developed for folks with intense emotional experiences, DBT has proven especially helpful for those navigating addiction, healing from childhood trauma, and living as part of the queer and trans community. It blends acceptance with change—teaching practical tools like distress tolerance, emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT creates space for self-compassion and empowerment, which can be deeply healing in the face of shame, stigma, or past pain.

Harm reduction is a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach that meets people where they are—without expecting perfection. In a therapy setting, harm reduction means supporting clients in making choices that reduce risk and increase well-being, even if they're not ready or don’t want to stop a behavior entirely. It’s especially useful for folks navigating substance use, self-harm, or other coping strategies that have helped them survive. Rooted in respect and collaboration, harm reduction honors each person’s autonomy, values, and lived experience—creating a safer space for honest conversations, growth, and change on your own terms.

For the past 10 years, I have served my community in two main ways:

• teaching yoga & meditation classes

• offering tarot readings

Fun fact, it’s what brought me to being therapist!

Studies have found many therapists see the benefit for their clients when they use complementary and alternative tools such as these.