Alexis Ryan, MA, LPCC

I often use an approach called "parts work," inspired by Internal Family Systems (IFS). You’ve probably noticed how sometimes a part of you feels confident and capable, while another part might feel scared or stuck. This method helps us make sense of these inner "voices" or feelings, giving them space to be heard and understood without judgment. It’s a powerful way to untangle emotional knots and start seeing yourself with compassion. I love this approach because it fosters clarity and self-awareness, helping you feel more at ease with all the parts of who you are.

Another approach I often use is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This method focuses on helping you make choices that reflect what truly matters to you, even when life feels overwhelming. We won’t try to erase tough emotions but instead learn how to move forward alongside them. I appreciate ACT because it’s practical and deeply empowering—it helps you connect with your values and create a life that feels meaningful, even in the face of challenges.

Sometimes, emotions show up in our bodies—tight shoulders, a racing heart, or that heavy feeling in your chest. Somatic therapy and sensorimotor techniques help us pay attention to these signals and work with them. Your body is like a wise guide, and when we tune in, we can release tension and build a sense of safety from the inside out. I find this work particularly effective because it reconnects you with your physical self and offers tools to calm your nervous system when life feels overwhelming.

Your nervous system plays a big role in how you experience stress, safety, and connection. Drawing on polyvagal theory, we’ll explore what helps you feel safe and calm in your daily life. This approach helps us notice and shift patterns like feeling stuck in overdrive or shutting down when things get too much. I find this work to be both gentle and transformative—it provides tools to understand and care for your mind and body as a whole.