My Approach
Body Oriented Psychotherapy (Bioenergetic Analysis, Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises, Focusing and Dreamwork, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Action Oriented)
Bioenergetic Analysis is a form of body oriented or somatic therapy. It can include experimenting with changes in breathing, posture and movement, as well as experiental exercises created to target specific issues and objectives. It is one of my favorite approaches to therapy because one does not need to have conscious, verbal memories for this therapy to be highly effective. In addition to releasing stress or traumas that have been held in the body in a safe, controlled way, Bioenergetic Analysis provides a framework for us to understand what the tensions are about and to support the bodily changes with our thoughts. Bioenergetic Analysis includes developmental theories as a way to understand the core conflicts and psychodynamic therapy. Kristy is a graduate of the Florida Society of Bioenergetics.
Emotional Transformation Therapy
Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT) , developed by Steven Vasquez is a type of therapy that uses light, attachment theory and a combination of other talk therapies. Light therapy has been shown to affect mood states in positive ways. Discoveries in light therapy have shown that particular wavelengths of light can transform a person's emotional state when they are administered skillfully by a person trained in the technique. In addition to issues typically addressed in psychotherapy ETT has dramatically positive effects on health conditions especially chronic pain, fatigue and fibromyalgia.
How it Works
In an ETT session, the neural impulses to the part of the brain responsible for producing negative emotions and symptoms are targeted by specific patterns of eye movement and stimulation. Specific wavelengths of light along with interaction with the therapist are used to restore healthy emotional regulation.
What to Expect
During an ETT session, a photosensitivity assessment will be performed to reveal your individual response to color and light as you consider the issue or change you wish to make. From the assessment proceeds a process in which a low level of light wavelengths is repeatedly emitted into your eyes. For some individuals or issues flickers will be used to stimulate the desired level of brainwave activity. During Ett, talk therapy is conducted. By combining the light therapy with the verbal expression, awareness is heightened, and healing is often seen in a shorter period of time than when using talk therapy alone. The individual maintains control throughout, by acting on the cues of the therapist in regards to breathing, eye movement, and talking, the participant is likely to see dramatic changes in mood and bodily experiences.
Psychodynamic Therapy
A psychodynamic approach is one in which self-awareness of defenses, unconscious perceptions, feelings and patterns that influence our relationships and behaviors is a major focus. With the therapist as guide, the client is able to let go of defenses that have become over-determined and detrimental. The intention of making buried feelings conscious, is to bring back our aliveness and motivation and to live as authentically as possible. We originally developed defenses for reasons and therefore it is important for a trained and sensitive other to guide the client in a way that when painful feelings and realizations occur, they are managed well. With unconditional positive regard and transparency about her own feelings when in the room with the client, the therapist helps the client to discover elements of his/her unconscious mind.