Julia, LMSW

Being human in today’s world can be incredibly difficult. Every person has strengths and challenges. Sometimes we lead more with our strengths, and other times with our challenges. This is a beautiful and complex reality that connects us all. I also understand how hard it can be to make sense of our challenges—where they come from, what they mean about us, and how to navigate them with both self-compassion and accountability. While I am not the right fit for everyone, I am a good fit for those who want to work on themselves—not to be perfect, but to move toward greater peace within themselves and in their relationships with others.

My therapeutic focus…

At the core of my work is the belief that many of the things we call problems or symptoms are extensions of painful experiences we’ve had, the experiences we deserved but didn’t receive, and the ways we adapted at the time to support ourselves as best we could. Healing happens when we can understand and honor how we’ve worked to create safety and connection in the past, while also updating and expanding our strategies in the present.

Many of my clients’ challenges also have an organic component. From neurodivergence to chronic illness, I am committed to helping you navigate your world in a way that acknowledges the impact of oppressive systems on your lived experience, while also building resources to support your functioning in ways that align with your values.

What to expect…

Therapy with me is not about giving you answers, but about helping you discover your own insight. My intention is to create a space where you feel safe enough to get to know the parts of yourself that may feel like a problem, and begin to understand how they have been adaptive or resourceful in the past.

We use this curiosity to cultivate the compassion needed to shift out of the shame or self-judgment that so often blocks growth. From there, we can begin to update your internal system with the strategies and perspectives it needs to think, feel, and respond more effectively in the present.

The therapeutic relationship…

Building a therapeutic relationship is at the heart of the work we do together. I believe that meaningful growth happens when you feel seen, understood, and safe. In our sessions, you can expect an environment of genuine warmth and curiosity.

My approach is centered on creating a partnership where you are the expert on your lived experience, and we collaboratively make sense of it through the additional lens of my training and experience. While I make space for you to share and process your experiences, I work best with those who are also willing to engage in the sometimes uncomfortable work of examining and adjusting patterns of thinking, feeling, and responding.

Feedback is an important part of the therapeutic process, and I will work with you to offer it in a way that aligns with your needs for care and sensitivity.