Feel better…for real.
create a life you love to live.
Psychologist in saratoga & san Jose California
Trauma
relationship Issues
Anxiety, Depression &
Low motivation
are you a deep feeler
or overthinker?
you may find yourself:
curios about how your past experiences have impacted you; searching for patterns in your life and what caused them.
constantly wondering why life doesn’t feel like you thought it would or feeling like something is missing but you can’t put your finger on it.
struggling in life and relationships because you doubt yourself or question where you belong, all the while yearning to make a deeper connection with your partner or others.
not engaging in life the way you hoped and struggling to figure out why.
There is no doubt.
You want change.
But no matter what you try,
it never has the impact you hoped it would.
hi. i’m Dottie.
I think There’s another way.
You may be trying to figure things out all on your own. Maybe that is how you have done it your whole life. But you don’t have to. It is through our interactions with others that we are able to confront those parts of ourselves that would otherwise stay hidden. This is why change on your own may feel elusive.
I don’t think there is anything wrong with you. The transformation that you are seeking might just take another actively engaged and imaginative mind willing to meet you where you are; another intently present human being to witness alongside you. In our work together, I will be deeply attuned to the quiet, sometimes silent whispers of your mind, to help illuminate the nuances that your mind may attempt to keep hidden from you.
I partner with insight seekers - those who are curious about themselves and others - yet find themselves facing challenges in relationships, coping with past trauma, or experiencing depression, anxiety, or low motivation. SPECIALIZING IN:
Trauma and painful life experiences
Whether you are certain that you were abused or neglected as a child, or you suspect that painful past experiences are influencing how you show up in life, together we will build a safe and trusting relationship and slowly explore what has happened to you. You will develop new insights about how these experiences are impacting your life today. You will tap into your deeper, wiser self with confidence and self compassion, build trust in yourself and others, and break free from your past.
Relationship issues
If you are struggling in your romantic, social or work relationships, or with general feelings of belongingness, we can face these struggles together. We will slowly and safely delve into your present and past day-to-day experiences, explore your feelings, thoughts, and fantasies, and discover old patterns, giving you more choices in how you relate to others today. Find freedom and cultivate deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Depression, Anxiety & Low Motivation
Maybe you were diagnosed with anxiety or depression, or suspect that you have suffered with a mild form for as long as you can remember. Either way, you are not alone. Together we can explore how your past experiences are undermining your confidence, leaving you feeling stuck. Release guilt and foster a new compassionate relationship with yourself. Discover your enthusiasm and a worthwhile, authentic direction in your life.
Out of your vulnerabilities
will come your strength.
Sigmund Freud
Getting Started is simple.
the process:
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To schedule a consultation:
You can schedule directly through my calendar.
If none of the available times are convenient, please try contacting me through email, phone, or text.
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During your phone consultation:
I will ask a few questions about you, like what is bringing you to therapy.
I might also ask about your past experiences in therapy.
And I’ll answer questions you might have about me.
Together we can determine if we’re the right fit for each other.
If we decide to move forward we will discuss our availability and schedule our first session.
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We will start meeting once or twice per week. The choice is yours. We will begin by getting to know each other and start anywhere you like, usually with what feels comfortable to you as you get to know me better.
The first three weeks are often a great time to consider as a trial to determine if my approach feels like a good fit for you.
On the fourth session we can discuss how things have been going and potentially make adjusments If we can. This is a great time to be as open as possible about what works or doesn't work for you.
To learn more about what to expect in therapy with me check out the About Me page.
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After time, some people choose to meet more frequently, like 3-4 times per week.
This allows for more everyday material to surface and allows for continuity in the experience and deepening of the relationship between us.
While I might invite you at some point, if it seems appropriate, this choice is a personal one. I deeply support what feels right to you.
This is a much more immersive style of work and it is not appropriate for everybody.
