Ajay Dheer (He/They)

Narrative 

Of all the orientations I have studied, narrative therapy has always resonated. Throughout my education, I have centered narrative techniques in my academic and applied work. In practice, I draw on narrative therapy to separate my clients from their problems in hopes of reducing feelings of guilt and shame.

Relational 

The primary reason I chose to become a marriage and family therapist is because I believe in the impact of relationships on our lives; therefore, I have spent the past several years consuming current studies on relational therapy.  I bring a curiosity to my practice that invites family dynamics, environments, friendships, and romantic relationships to have a role in one's identity.  I believe relational therapy techniques can be used with anybody - individuals, couples, families, etc.

Emotionally Focused

I am currently being trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with anticipated completion in spring of 2021. EFT attunes to our own emotions and emotional regulation as well as how they interact with those of our partner(s). I primarily use EFT with relationships (monogamous couples as well as polyamorous/open relationships), though the benefits of my training can also be utilized with individuals.

Experiential

Experiential therapy was a large focus of my training in graduate school. My studies and my clinical practice have included various experiential based approaches, including but not limited to: mindfulness, breath work, role plays and other more traditional experiential techniques. These techniques can be particularly helpful when traditional talk therapy could use a boost.

Gottman Method

I have completed the first two levels of training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy in addition to studying several of Gottman’s books. Gottman Method centers communication, conflict resolution, empathy, and intimacy in relationships. I utilize Gottman Method in conjunction with a social justice oriented approach to provide support for everyone.

Relationship / Marriage Issues

My graduate education prioritized working with relationships, fostering a level of confidence in my clinical practice. Since graduating I have pursued further training in working with couples. I believe that relational work allows us to go deeper offering new levels of healing and lasting change. I thoroughly enjoy the complexity and dynamics of people and am passionate about holding space for your relationship(s).

Cultural and Systemic Oppression

In my graduate education, I have both taken and taught classes on racism and systemic oppression. In my clinical practice, I see systemic oppression to be more then race; it also includes gender, sexuality, ethical non-monogamy, ability, citizenship, etc. Much of my experience working with cultural oppression include the manifestations of anxiety and depression.

Gender Identity

My desire to work with gender identity was a critical component to my inspiration in becoming a sex therapist. I am passionate about delivering gender affirming care at all stages of exploration and/or transition.

Polyamorous and Open Relationships

Nearly a quarter of my caseload has been centered around relationships that are practicing ethical non monogamy, transitioning into opening or closing their relationships, and other conversations around the impacts of society’s expectations for monogamy.

LGBTQ Issues

First and foremost, I want to be explicit that I don’t consider LGBTQ+ identities to be ‘issues.’ That being said, I enjoy and specialize in working with the impact of these identities on day to day life. In addition to being a member of LGBTQ+ communities, I’ve received specialized education in working with queer folx. Over the past two years have gained expertise through both individual and group therapy settings.