How I Work: A Neurodivergent‑Affirming IFS Approach
I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens. This approach looks at your inner world not as something to fix, but as something intelligent that has learned how to survive in a complex world.
What We Pay Attention To:
Rather than starting with analysis or insight, we begin by noticing how your nervous system responds to stress, safety, and overwhelm in real time. You may notice different modes or states; such as tension, shutdown, urgency, self‑criticism, or exhaustion. In IFS these are often called “parts,” but we can use whatever language feels most natural to you.
These experiences don’t need to be verbal, visual, or emotional in a typical way. They may show up as body sensations, pressure, numbness, energy shifts, impulses, fog, or a strong need to pause. All of these are valid ways your system communicates.
A Bottom‑Up, Consent‑Based Process:
This work is bottom‑up, meaning we listen to your body and nervous system first rather than trying to think or reason our way through problems. Typically, this is the processing path for many neurodivergent people. We move slowly and collaboratively, and nothing is explored without the consent of your protective parts. If something feels like “resistance,” we treat it as important information, not a barrier.
You always have control over the pace. Pausing, changing direction, or stopping is welcome and respected.
What Self‑Leadership Means Here:
You don’t need to be calm, articulate, or emotionally expressive for this work to be effective. In this context, “Self” simply means the part of you that can notice what’s happening without forcing it to change. Curiosity, neutrality, or even quiet observation are more than enough.
Supporting Regulation During Sessions:
You are encouraged to move, stim, fidget, look away, or regulate yourself in whatever way works best for you. Therapy here is not about performing or masking, it’s about creating enough safety for your system to be honest.
The Goal of This Work:
The goal isn’t to eliminate parts of you, but to understand them, reduce internal conflict, and build trust within your system. Over time, this often leads to more clarity, less overwhelm, and a greater sense of internal steadiness, without requiring you to become someone you’re not.
This approach is especially supportive for neurodivergent adults, including those who are late‑diagnosed, burned out, or tired of trying to fit into other models of therapy that never quite worked. I
Is This for You?
This work may be a good fit if you:
Identify as neurodivergent (diagnosed or self-identified) and feel chronically overwhelmed or misunderstood
Are high-functioning on the outside, but internally exhausted, anxious, or emotionally shut down
Have a history of complex or developmental trauma (C-PTSD)
Struggle with overthinking, people-pleasing, or masking to get through daily life
Want to understand your nervous system and emotional patterns, not just manage symptoms
Are drawn to a collaborative, compassionate, and non-pathologizing approach to therapy
Are curious about parts work (IFS), mindfulness, or deeper self-exploration
Are interested in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy as an optional support for healing
This May Not Be the Right Fit If…
This approach may not be the best fit if you:
Are hoping for quick solutions or a highly structured, step-by-step therapy style
Prefer a more directive approach where the therapist leads every session
Are not interested in exploring emotions, patterns, or nervous system responses
Are looking for therapy focused only on symptom relief rather than deeper understanding
Are seeking Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy without the intention of preparation and integration work
The work here is collaborative, reflective, and paced with care. It tends to be most supportive for those who are open to self-exploration and gradual, sustainable change.
My Guiding Principles
Each one of us holds an inherent brilliance, a unique light waiting to be discovered and nurtured.
My therapy practice is designed to support you on a profound journey of self-discovery, diving deep into the physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual aspects of who you are.
Healing isn't a linear process, and timelines may vary from person to person. Nonetheless, the journey usually includes
Cultivating Safety and Connection
Psychoeducation and Emotional Processing Through Talk Therapy
Identifying Triggers and Stuck Parts • Building Emotional Coping Skills
Childhood Explorations and Shadow Work
Increasing Self-Awareness
Post-Traumatic Growth
Embarking on this journey requires courage, but the road to healing, understanding, and transformation lies ahead.
