About Andrew Davis, LMFT
My philosophy…
So much suffering…
… comes from more than just our stressors. It comes from our resistance to what is.
Resistance can show up as self-judgment (labeling feelings as good or bad, right or wrong, or using “should” and “shouldn’t”)… or attempts to fix, avoid, or change your experience or emotional state.
Increasing our self-compassion and decreasing our resistance to what is (our internal and external states) gives us room to navigate those challenges that are simply “a part of life.”
One of my favorite things about being a therapist…
… is helping clients connect to their inner healing potential.
As a therapist, I see my role as facilitating the growth, healing, and thriving of which all humans are capable.
In our work together, we’ll navigate the barriers, resistance, fear, judgment, or other components that hinder your ability to access your authentic potential.
My clinical approach is shaped by…
… my life experience and personal journey through therapy.
As someone who “walks the walk,” most of the tools, practices, strategies, and approaches I’ll use with you are things that have been or are a part of my personal practice.
How I work…
Rather than treating symptoms or a diagnosis…
I emphasize treating the person in front of me.
We are who we are because of our experiences (interactions, associations, relationships, and environments). They make us who we are (for better or worse).
As we work together, we’ll identify which accumulated beliefs align with your idealized self and which ones you want to move on from or reframe.
We’ll use tools from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, self-compassion, and psychodynamic therapy to support you through the process.
This trauma-informed, nonjudgmental, and non-pathologizing outlook creates a space conducive to healing.
Conditions I specialize in include: adult children of emotionally immature parents, adults with childhood trauma and emotional neglect, people-pleasing, codependency, and learning to set healthy boundaries.
I also support clients with psychedelic integration sessions.
I strongly value strong rapport and trust.
Our relationship will be the “safe container” necessary for “the work.” I’ll hold space for your emotional experiences and provide direct guidance, suggestions, and feedback when appropriate.
Most therapy work occurs between our sessions, so we’ll develop a realistic plan to hold you accountable as you put the work into practice.
Gradually, as you become more connected to your physical body and internal experiences, you’ll shift your focus to what you CAN control… and find the growth you’ve been seeking.
I tend to take a holistic approach…
So, we’ll consider lifestyle factors that may directly or indirectly influence your mental health.
Proper sleep, a balanced diet, physical movement, mindfulness, social connection, and connection to the natural world can positively influence your healing journey.
My background…
I specialize in working with those…
… who struggle with trauma-related issues and challenges relating to boundaries and self-care. These challenges often impact social and romantic relationships. By exploring the root causes and symptoms, I aim to help my clients thrive as individuals and in their relationships with friends, family, and intimate partners.
I also work with clients who have not responded to or benefited from previous therapy experiences. I pride myself on providing my clients with solutions tailored to their needs and a therapeutic environment conducive to their growth.
Some of my education and experience…
I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Adolescent Development from California State University, Northridge, in 2012. After a brief stint teaching elementary school, I found myself in graduate school working toward a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles.
Since graduation, I’ve worked with diverse populations in various settings. My experience includes multiple community mental health clinics, residential rehabilitation centers for men and women, and residential mental health treatment programs for foster youth. I’ve also worked as a solo practitioner in different capacities. I strongly value these experiences, as they positively influenced my outlook on human potential.
Let’s connect!
I would love to meet you and get started!
If you’re ready to start that journey, let’s talk more about how I can help.
Please contact us to get started with your free consultation!