ChristinaMarie Davis PsyD

In the first session my objective is to establish relationship, learn about one another. The people I work with consistently report that an initial therapy session with me results in a reduction in anxiety. Whether you are looking for brief, solution-focused therapy to address a specific challenge or to establish a deep therapeutic alliance, I emphasize encouraging your positive qualities, emotional resources and intellect. Over time this will strengthen existing skills and equip you with new strategies. The people I work with consistently report I have helped them identify and grow what serves wellness and recognize and reduce what is preventing them from experiencing optimal wellbeing.

A mindfulness-based, cognitive behavioral method is my foundation. This means raising holistic awareness, suspending self-criticism, acknowledging maladaptive thought patterns and emotional pain. Examining the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behavior gives us access to mechanisms for change. I have had considerable success with the techniques of motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), brief solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and iRset Yoga Nidra for deep relaxation and improved sleep quality. I practice eclectically and flexibly, the method I use will be specific to the person, their issues and objectives. I practice myself and frequently bring into my work Buddhist psychology. This is a way of working with pain and suffering that generates healing by relaxing judgment. This helps us to discern between the need to be more tolerant of causes and conditions and the need to take action for change.

• California, PsyD, 34197