individual therapy
People seek therapy for many reasons. Many people come to therapy when the ways that they have learned to cope or survive are no longer working for them. You may feel stuck, anxious, self-conscious, frustrated, fragile, or even numb. I believe that everyone could benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Some people like to think of therapy as a way to tend to their mental and emotional well-being, similar to how they go to a medical doctor for their physical health. Others think of it as a “tune-up,” or as an opportunity to gain a new perspective on an issue they’re facing.
relationship & SEX therapy
Relationships are the most meaningful and challenging part of being human. Our close relationships are often where our deepest wounding comes to the surface. Most of us aren’t taught how to communicate effectively, build trust, or resolve conflict. Therapy can be a place to increase insight into your patterns and practice the skills needed to build the life that you and your partner desire.
Sex therapists provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore sexual issues and identity, by yourself or in a relationship. Working with a sex therapist will often involve an exploration of sexual attitudes and where they came from, learning about human sexuality, and verbal instruction on how to reduce anxiety and increase pleasure, connection, and satisfaction.
EMDR TRauma therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) addresses past emotionally-charged experiences that are overly influencing your present emotions, sensations, and thoughts about yourself. As an example: “Do you ever feel worthless although you know you are a worthwhile person?” EMDR processing helps you break through the emotional blocks that are keeping you from living an adaptive, emotionally healthy life. EMDR uses rapid sets of eye movements to help you update disturbing experiences, much like what occurs when we sleep. During sleep, we alternate between regular sleep and REM (rapid eye movement). This sleep pattern helps you process things that are troubling you. EMDR replicates this sleep pattern by alternating between sets of eye movements and brief reports about what you are noticing. This alternating process helps you update your memories to a healthier present perspective.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION
Tessa Kinsey is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate offering clinical supervision. Her supervisory style is warm and relational. Her clinical practice is rooted in systems theory and includes somatic trauma therapy, ecotherapy, and relationship/ sex therapy. She is currently working towards EMDR and AASECT certification, and has also trained in Gottman relationship therapy. She is committed to incorporating an anti-oppressive framework in therapy and supervision. Her philosophy of supervision document is available upon request.