Kaia Stamiris (They/She)

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

I have completed the official Level 1 training program for this model of therapy, and my continuing education and consultation in the model is ongoing. Many clients find the concept of interacting with different "parts" of themselves to be intuitive and approachable. Many also find immense benefits of relating to these parts with kindness, compassion, and a willingness to listen openly to their past experiences and current struggles.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

I have taken several training courses in the ACT model, and believe that no better model for describing the building blocks of psychological health exists at this time. I apply the model flexibly and especially enjoy guiding clients through exercises to facilitate defusion from thoughts (i.e. stepping back into the "observing self").

Mindfulness-based

I've done extensive study of the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) model and I employ a trauma-informed, individualized approach when offering mindfulness exercises in session. This allows clients to engage with a "dosage" and style of mindfulness that works well in the moment, and to feel comfortable interrupting the exercise at any point.

Anxiety

I work with anxiety both through the lenses of acceptance and action. Acceptance of anxiety is a challenging yet worthwhile pursuit because not only is it necessary for survival, the functions it motivates can be highly adaptive! Using mindfulness, we will increase body-based awareness of varying levels of anxiety and gradually increase your ability to "stay with" this feeling state, and build in constructive action steps that will interrupt the negative feedback loop between body and brain.

Personal Growth

As a therapist, I've been extensively trained in reflective listening skills. The idea of reflective listening may be relatively simple, but it's application is nuanced, and it is a powerful means of cultivating the skill of self-awareness required for personal growth. I also frequently use concepts I've learned in my study of the Internal Family Systems model to help clients make sense of and resolve internal conflicts that may arise from simultaneously holding multiple perspectives.

Autism

I practice neurodivergent-affirming care. In a nutshell, this means our work will emphasize strengths over differences, and affirm your lived experiences. I understand the challenges of living in a society that is not set up to understand neurodivergent perspectives. I place great importance on both autonomy and authenticity, and I give clients lots of space to provide feedback on what is and is not working for them in therapy. I have a naturally slow pace in session and many find this helpful.

Gender Identity

My work in this area leans on both both academic training and lived experiences. As a non-binary human who has long worked to overturn gender roles, I am deeply supportive of both trans and nonbinary clients. I've worked with a wide variety of individuals, and have helped to address concerns ranging from dysphoria and coming out, to the invisibility of passing post-transition. I'm here to support you in becoming authentically you, and at home in your body.

Body Image Issues

I have done professional training and study in this area and am Health at Every-Size informed, and aware of the presence of toxic cultural influences around dieting and fatphobia. I am accepting of clients as they are and believe that the work of unplugging from biased sources and de-programming cultural myths around our bodies is both valuable and necessary.