The Greek word "psyche" means "soul" and the Greek word "therapeia" means "attendant." Therefore, "soul attending" is actually what any form of counseling is meant to be. This sacred work of honoring and attending to the uniqueness of each client and hearing her story as a gift she gives in trust is at the core of my practice.

The goal of soul-based therapy is not just relief from symptoms -- although this certainly does take place. When symptoms are viewed and appreciated as a way of "getting our attention," they can then subside as deeper issues needing exploration and healing surface in the environment of trust formed in the therapeutic relationship.

"Talk Therapy" is an avenue to help clients identify patterns of thinking and behavior that have resulted in limited and unsatisfying ways of living. Discovering these patterns allows individualized solutions to shape new choices and make new decisions in attitude and action that empower and heal.

I also use dreamwork, active imagination, inner dialog observation, journaling, and creative homework assignments to assist in releasing past trauma and grief and increasing compassion for self and others. I also assist clients in building a system of "soul symbols" -- a lexicon of specialized personal symbols that provide a spiritual and practical structure of meaning and purpose on the continuing journey of the Soul.

Contact information: 503.309.6256

avalonrising@mac.com