Natalie’s Approach
Natalie
works to create a warm, inviting, and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves freely. Short- and long-term goals are created and discussed frequently to ensure progress is being made at the right pace and in the right direction. Natalie works actively with her clients,
integrating various approaches, orientations and interventions based on who she’s in the room with.
Read descriptions below to gain a better understanding of Natalie’s approach and theoretical framework.
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is generally what we think of when we hear ‘talk therapy.’ It’s a theoretical framework that encourages the client to speak freely about dreams, desires, and fantasies, as well any distressing symptoms that are impeding with achieving goals and feeling confident. Personal and relational patterns are explored in-depth, with the goal of establishing a greater sense of self and wellbeing.
Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis is an in-depth approach that encourages the exploration of who we are at our core. It investigates conscious and unconscious beliefs about our selves that may be preventing us from moving forward and thriving. Foundational relationships & experiences are explored to understand root causes, and how they may be effecting the client’s current life circumstances.
Creative Arts Therapy
Creative Arts Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based approach that links the creative process with the healing process. By using our own creativity we bring in all parts of who we are to cultivate understanding and compassion in dynamic and unique ways. Creative interventions may be used in-sessions, or simply encouraged for the client to incorporate at home.
Relational Orientation
A relational orientation considers the actual relationship that is being formed between client and therapist to be an integral part of the process. It gives insight into different relational patterns in the client’s life, with the therapeutic relationship being a safe place to practice new ways of relating. This also ensures that the client’s needs are being met by keeping a direct line of communication open.
Holistic Orientation
A holistic orientation views the client as a whole person, rather than as a make-up of their symptoms or diagnosis. With this view, the process unfolds through an understanding that the individual inherently knows when and how they are ready to make changes, and what those changes are. The therapist guides, but the client drives.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness interventions bring a focus to the mind-body connection. As we learn to rest our nervous systems we become more intentional with our reactions. Understanding what and how we have control, and how we don’t, allows us to bring in more compassion and acceptance. Breathing, centering and grounding techniques are used within the therapy room, and are encouraged to be practiced in day-to-day life.