- As a result of her varied studies and experiences, Judith believes in bringing together the traditional world of Western Clinical Psychology and neurological research with the “Non-traditional” world of holistic, complementary methods.
These include: Buddhist psychology (Mindfulness Meditation and Contemplative-based approaches), Somatic Therapies and Energy medicine. See Definition of Terms. She is delighted that the current outpouring of neurological data confirms the brain changing benefits of these complementary methods, bringing them closer to mainstream clinical thinking and practice.
- The Neuroscientific research, especially in the last 10 years, has demonstrated that Mindfulness meditation, and Contemplative-based practices, such as: developing Compassion for self and others, building internal safety and choosing wise action can and do rewire the brain. This process is called Neuroplasticity, and has greatly affected approaches in both Trauma therapy, and psychotherapy in general.
“Neuroplasticity is a term that is used to describe the brain changes that occur in response to experience. There are many different mechanisms of Neuroplasticity ranging from the growth of new connections to creations of new neurons.” Richard J. Davidson, Ph.D. Meditation, as well as mindfully focused Body/Mind Somatic interventions foster Neuroplasticity, and allow new connections in the brain to change habits of behavior, moods and personality traits.
- Judith believes there is great value in “bridging” both worlds, and is gratified to be in the foreground of this dynamic trend.
- Unlike many other therapeutic approaches that see people as damaged, Judith works from the belief that, no matter how much pain has been experienced, how troubled or stuck a person may be, ALL have, at their center, an “Authentic (Core) Self” which, because of life events, may have been lost, buried or forgotten. With her methods of working, she helps people find and tap into their own “Innate wisdom” and personal Center or Core Self. Working in this way facilitates faster and more complete healing.
Along with her years of training in many disciplines, she believes in allowing her own personal internalization and depth of understanding to inform the therapy process. With good boundaries, she shows clients how to personally internalize and synthesize the work they are doing, and “Make it their own”. Even though she uses the similar approaches with many people, no two therapy processes look alike. Each is uniquely tailored to the individual’s personality, needs and life situation.
Because she believes that the relationship between therapist and client is very important, she has a collaborative and relational approach to the work. Respect, clarity, deep listening and warm humor are all important elements. She and her clients become a team, working together to personalize the process for each person seeking help. She brings her “Authentic (Core) Self” to all interactions with her clients.