Contemplative Psychotherapy integrates traditional, Western psychotherapy with Buddhist and yoga psychologies, Indo-Tibetan Mindfulness and Compassion-based theories and practices, including meditation and attention to the physical body, and neuroscience. Erica's approach is collaborative and comprehensive. She believes in meeting a person where they are and creating a unique treatment approach to help individuals reach their goals of healing and self-development. Erica brings a non-judgmental, respectful attitude to healing.   

areas of focus:

• Self-empowerment

• Restoring healthy boundaries

• Increasing self-compassion and self-love

• Decreasing the self-critical internal voice

• Resolving core shame

• Transforming adversity into meaningful experience

• Re-writing traumatic narratives

• Coping with chronic pain

• Clarifying values and vision

• Identifying and overcoming mental and emotional blockages

• Living authentically

• Cultivating connection to self and others

• Learning to sit with strong emotions with ease, equanimity, and spaciousness

Medication management includes prescribing and monitoring psychotropic medications for the purposes of treating a psychiatric disorder and assisting in the process of healing mental and emotional health. Depending on the particular case, the use of such medications may be recommended. Erica always works collaboratively with patients and will discuss any concerns you have about taking medications. She will make every effort to use a simple regimen with the lowest risks of side effects for the shortest duration possible.

If it is determined that medication will be part of the treatment plan, you will be informed of the nature of the treatment (including the dose, frequency, expected benefits, the most common possible side effects, and possible drug interactions if relevant). You will also be advised of alternative treatments and approximate length of treatment. In some cases, medications are most beneficial on a long-term basis, and in other other cases, short-term use of medications is sufficient. Medications can sometimes be useful in providing faster relief of distressing symptoms, but can be safely discontinued once a person has gained relevant insights and established healthy coping skills, which can be done through co-occurring psychotherapy. Any prescribed medications will be believed to help, however there is no guarantee as to the results that may occur. 

areas of focus:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Panic Disorder

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

• Bipolar Disorder

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

• Sleep Issues

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

• Seasonal Affective Disorder