Where are you located? What are your credentials? What population do you work with and which disorders do you primarily focus on?
My name is Gabi Boeger. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Lenexa, Kansas. I work with individuals, couples, and families. As a marriage and family therapist, I use a systemic perspective to consider all of the systems my clients are a part of. I primarily help folks with issues related to depression, anxiety, sexuality, body-image, self-esteem, eating disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
What is your theoretical orientation? Why did you choose that orientation?
I tend to gravitate towards post-modern theories such as narrative and feminist therapies. I believe the client is the expert on their life and their experience in therapy. I see myself as a co-author in writing the client’s story. I also value addressing the impact society can have on marginalized groups. As a certified yoga instructor, I often integrate mindfulness and body awareness tools with therapy. I love using the bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework as each of these dimensions are all impacting the client in different ways.
What is a mental health “golden nugget” you can give over?
My golden nugget would be not to underestimate the importance of mind-body connection. A lot of the experiences we go through as humans (stress, anxiety, trauma, loss) can make it feel easier to disconnect from our bodies. When we take time to connect the body and mind, with mindful breathing, for example, we are much more able to respond to ourselves and others from a place of calmness and love. Mindfulness is a practice and can be really challenging at times. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being patient and gracious with ourselves.
What aspects of clinical work do you enjoy most?
My favorite part of being a clinician is listening and providing space for clients. Cliché I know. I truly feel so lucky to be able to hold space for people and witness them grow and connect with themselves.
Do you work alone or are you a part of a group practice?
I am part of a group practice: re:Vive, LLC. We offer counseling and consulting, as well as training for mental health professionals. Our practice includes nine amazing therapists all with different backgrounds and clinical specializations. Check us out at www.revivekc.com
What do you do for self-care?
Yoga and time with my family and friends are my biggest self-care tools. I do yoga just about every day and it keeps me sane mentally, physically, and spiritually. I also spend lots of time cooking, hiking, drinking coffee, and going on walks with my girlfriend Jen and our dog, Vincent.
How do you take your coffee?
I love black coffee! Second choice is an almond milk latte.
You can follow Gabriella on Instagram @hopehelpskc and find her online at www.revivekc.com
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