Between stimulus & response there is a space, in that space is our power to choose our response, in our response lies our growth & our freedom.
-Viktor Frankl
I support individuals to understand their depression and anxiety, empowering them to meet the unmet needs behind these symptoms and realize strengths, on their journey to creating more life satisfaction.
We have all been there, that soul crushing, hopeless experience of feeling stuck in life. Perhaps you are struggling with your relationships, or find that symptoms of depression/anxiety interfere with your ability to function on a daily basis. Maybe you are caught in a cycle of self-sabotaging behaviors; struggling to commit to participating fully in a life that you truly love. Whatever the case may be, these road blocks can be self-defeating and reinforce or even create negative core beliefs. The truth is, there is good reason why you are stuck. Whether you are grappling with unresolved trauma, a major life change, or you struggle to create a balanced lifestyle, I am dedicated to helping you explore the underlying problem areas and supporting you on your path towards growth.
On my couch, I will help you to understand your symptoms as expressions of your parts; parts of you from the past that can be felt when you are triggered. Becoming acquainted with your parts will help you to understand why you find yourself stuck in the same patterns of thought, behavior and feelings. Together we will begin to communicate compassionately with these parts, supporting them to feel heard and to get their needs met. More than loosening the grip of your automatic responses, I strive to shift the focus to what IS working for you and how you can capitalize on that. My therapeutic approach is centered around the belief that each individual is unique and therefore has a unique set of underlying needs and values that deserve to be nurtured. I believe in a client centered approach where the therapeutic forum becomes a place to uncover your strengths, values, and needs; which is critical to your process of conceptualizing a meaningful path forward.
I consider myself to be holistic in my treatment approach. Having lived the hamster wheel lifestyle in my twenties to now making choices on a daily basis that promote health and purpose, I believe that it is fundamental to get in touch with that which brings balance to your life. I am passionate about teasing forth your truths and collaboratively mapping out a future that honors them. How you care for your body is also an important talking point in therapy. Being a functional medicine enthusiast, I don’t think you can talk about mental health without looking at physical health; after all, your brain is part of your body! Research shows that people who struggle with chronic diseases are far more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. I believe that there are many overlaps between mental and physical health and therefore find it important to examine the choices you are making for your body on a regular basis.
You are not your anxiety or depression; it’s time that you understand these symptoms and begin to empower yourself with tools, insight as well as strengths which you already possess. People are not broken, they become unbalanced when they fail to listen to their mind and body. You have all the answers within, and I would be honored to support you on your journey to discovering them.
Sofie Lassen Therapy – San Juan Capistrano – yourpath@sofielassentherapy.com