Christopher Pattyn (he/him)

My Approach to Helping

My clinical approach is an integration of psychodynamic, relational, and family systems models. These models support personalized, in-depth work of past history, past and current relational and family dynamics, as well as the unconscious. I find this integrative approach invaluable in the process of healing and reconnecting with your core-self and overall well being. While using these modalities, I tailor them to the individual client, affirming a client’s full story. I do not dismiss or pathologize a client's lived experiences, culture, or values. I strive to create a collaborative relationship in working with clients and couples, using the counseling relationship as a potential change mechanism. My approach acknowledges the power dynamic inherent in our relationship, and aims to flatten power imbalances in order to cultivate trust between myself and clients while also encouraging clients to explore their agency in the counseling relationship.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I believe our past experiences can have a lasting impact on us, and affect how we move through life as adults. This can impact how we view ourselves, how we view others, and how we connect in relationships. Fortunately, our past experiences can be worked through in adulthood. This may involve confronting past lessons, examining our present patterns of relating, and adjusting so our futures can be aligned with who we are and what we want. I was drawn to this work in part due to my own historic struggles relating to myself and others. I have experienced first hand the power and change that can occur from having an empathetic, safe space to explore the areas of ourselves and our pasts that may be getting in the way of fully experiencing the life and connections we crave. Outside of therapy, you can find me headbanging at a metal show, diving into meaning I find while watching movies, and bouldering.