Philosophy

My seven core principles:

1. Practice safely
2. Practice in good faith
3. Knowledge is power - for me, you, our teachers, everyone
4. Consider problems and strengths in the context of biology, development, and environment (family, school/work, community) 
5. View treatment as a collaborative process
6. Recommend the treatment with the best evidence to effect desired and sustained changes
7. Education, outreach, and support are vital to the health of any community

Other foundational beliefs about treatment:

• Medication is one tool of many for helping people with psychiatric problems. It has a place in some treatments, but almost never alone
• Medication should be implemented cautiously and conservatively
• Therapy is best for many kids when it aims to be brief
• Therapists are often most effective when direct and transparent (i.e., therapy is a collaborative process, not something magical done by the therapist to the patient)
• Therapy works best when the person of focus is motivated for change
• Great treatment requires a proper initial evaluation
• Treatment choices must be supported by responsible adults. Though I will recommend the approach best supported by peer-reviewed scientific studies, choice of treatment modality is a personal decision. Implementing any treatment must be adapted carefully to meet the specific needs of the person or people seeking treatment
• My role is to help you or your child reach your goals by providing clinical expertise, education, skill-building, and compassion. I achieve this by adhering to my core principles