How It Works

Developing defenses
Most people have experienced some hardship or difficulty in their life time. We usually do the best we can to get through it. In an attempt to feel safe and protected against unpleasant experiences, we often build defenses (i.e. avoiding or shutting down, addictive behaviors, or anxiously seeking to please).

We may approach new difficulties by relying on old defenses. Since these defenses are often not conscious, we do not have the opportunity to evaluate whether or not these defenses are helping or hindering us in our current situation. If left unexamined, defenses can develop into persistent patterns and habits that can be unhelpful or detrimental.

Gaining insight and awareness
While we may have thoughts about how we would like to do things better, we often underestimate the power of our defenses, habits, and ego protection. Also, it is difficult to take time to explore what we may be truly experiencing. Most often there is far more going on than we know.

With a little assistance and effort, we can gain skill and practice in becoming more aware, which then gives us the opportunity to release old patterns, emotions, and protection. As we increase our awareness, we also increase our ability to heal and create new experiences.

The therapeutic framework
Overall, my approach is integrative, positive, and collaborative. I am highly committed to creating a safe, confidential, and secure environment that is supportive, nurturing, and encouraging for clients.

My style is warm, compassionate, and empowering. I emphasize deep listening and attentive focus, where clients can feel heard, seen, and understood. Within this framework, clients have the opportunity to share and explore vulnerable emotions, beliefs, and experiences.

The therapeutic process
The concerns and issues that bring you in to counseling will be a starting point for our work together. The information gained in your intake session and your goals will also inform the direction of our work together.

With an active and collaborative style, I will assist you in your self-exploration. I may invite you to explore an aspect of your experience more deeply through various therapeutic techniques. We may confront negative and limiting beliefs, past hurts, protective defenses, or emotions. We will practice skills together that you will be able to apply and integrate into your life.

Through listening and attending to your process, we will explore new ways of approaching your challenges that help you get more of what you are wanting in life. As you work towards your goals, you will also gain a sense of more authenticity, creativity, happiness, and centeredness.

Some of the benefits:
As we work together, you may experience many benefits. You will have the opportunity to gain insight and self-understanding. You will likely gain many skills in how to work difficult emotions and life challenges. You may become more aware of your needs, and be better equipped with how to meet those needs. You may feel an increase in motivation, healing, and inspiration. Overall, you may feel a greater sense of well-being, inner strength, and vitality.

Please contact me if you would like to learn more about the possibility of our working together.

Boulder psychotherapist and counselor Jessica Higgins, PhD, LPC provides counseling and therapy to couples, individuals, teens, and families. She specializes in helping clients handle challenges and conflict in their relationship as opportunities for growth. She also specializes in working with issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transition, spirituality, stress reduction, healing, communication, conflict resolution, and personal growth.