THERAPEUTIC MODELS

I specialize in supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer, chronic illness, and rare disorders through an integrative, patient-centered approach. Grounded in Medical Family Therapy and informed by Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), my work addresses the emotional, relational, and spiritual effects of living with complex health conditions.

For patients who desire it, I thoughtfully incorporate Christian faith into the therapeutic process—drawing on the hope, grace, and strength found in Scripture to support healing and resilience. Through the lens of narrative theory, I help patients externalize their struggles, reconnect with their God-given identity, and reclaim their sense of purpose. As Germany Kent reminds us, “Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction.” Each session is tailored to the individual, with the goal of fostering connection, agency, and renewed hope in the face of life’s challenges.

Medical Family Therapy Model

Medical Family Therapy is a collaborative, integrative approach that addresses the emotional, relational, and psychological impact of medical conditions on individuals and their families. This model emphasizes the mind-body connection and supports patients in navigating the intersection of physical illness, mental health, and family dynamics.

In practice, this might include:

• Helping a couple cope with the emotional strain of a cancer diagnosis, improving communication and emotional support during treatment.

• Supporting a family adjusting to chronic illness, addressing parental stress, sibling dynamics, and shifting family roles to promote understanding, emotional resilience, and balanced caregiving within the household.

• Working with an individual experiencing depression following a stroke, exploring identity shifts and building coping strategies.

• Assisting a caregiver experiencing burnout, providing space to process emotions and reconnect with personal well-being.

• Collaborating with medical providers, when appropriate, to ensure coordinated care that considers both physical and emotional needs.

As a Medical Family Therapist, I tailor the therapeutic process to each patient’s unique experience, aiming to foster resilience, restore connection, and promote holistic healing.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps individuals identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. When facing health challenges, CBT can be especially effective in managing the emotional impact of illness, improving coping strategies, and enhancing overall quality of life.

In practice, CBT may support clients in:

• Reducing anxiety related to medical procedures or diagnosis

• Managing depressive symptoms associated with chronic illness

• Challenging negative self-talk related to body image or physical limitations

• Developing practical tools to cope with fatigue, pain, or treatment side effects

• Strengthening problem-solving skills and emotional regulation in daily life

CBT empowers patients to build resilience by fostering a more balanced and adaptive mindset in the face of health-related stress.

Narrative Therapy

Narrative Therapy centers on the belief that people are not defined by their problems. It helps individuals explore and re-author the stories they tell about themselves—especially in the context of illness, trauma, or life transitions.

This approach is particularly meaningful in my work with patients facing health challenges, as it aligns closely with my doctoral dissertation: Narrative Medicine and the Patient’s Illness Narrative: A Workshop for Physicians. My research focused on how healthcare providers can better understand patients’ experiences by listening to the stories they tell about their illness.

In practice, Narrative Therapy can help clients:

• Separate their identity from a diagnosis (e.g., “I have cancer” vs. “I am cancer”)

• Explore how illness has shaped their personal, relational, and cultural narratives

• Find meaning in life changes through storytelling and reflection

• Reclaim agency and voice in the midst of medical uncertainty

• Share their lived experience in empowering, authentic ways

Narrative Therapy provides a powerful framework for fostering resilience, healing, and connection—especially when navigating the complexities of illness.