My Journey into Therapy
My name is Debbi Odell, and I'm a queer, genderfluid, creative & mathematical human. My journey began in childhood, where I found solace in art and imagination. Exploring different forms of creativity shaped my understanding of emotions. This early curiosity ignited a passion for helping others express their inner worlds. I knew that creativity could connect us all in profound ways.
My Story
A Path to Understanding
As I traveled and worked in various settings, my interest in psychology deepened, leading me to pursue my dreams. I became a licensed marriage and family therapist, blending creativity with therapeutic techniques. I graduated from Antioch University Santa Barbara with a Masters in Clinical Psychology and concentration in Somatic Therapies. My work and life experiences taught me the importance of relational dynamics and emotional expression. I began to realize that healing could look different for everyone.
Embracing Transformational Therapies
In my practice, I explore various modalities to cater to diverse needs. I then pursued a certificate in Expressive Arts Therapy through Northwest Creative & Expressive Arts Institute, EMDR Level 1 Training, and EMDR Certification. From Expressive Arts to Somatics to EMDR, I discovered that each approach offers unique tools for healing. Integrating these techniques allows me to support clients as they navigate challenges. I am constantly inspired by their courage and resilience. Individual work was deeply satisfying; yet, I noticed people often struggled in relationships even when they had improved their self-awareness and processed through traumas.
Improving Relational Wellbeing
Individual therapy is the first step toward health and happiness, and building foundational skills. The next step is improving relationships, being able to give and receive support, be effective at communication, navigate conflicts and traumas, and build trust with a partner or partners.
I bring a blend of Gottman, Emotion-focused therapy, Relational Life Therapy, Developmental Approach, attachment theory, and practical skill building to couples work. The goal is to navigate challenges more effectively and get your needs met while preserving the relationship and your partner's feelings.
Community and Connection
Creating safe spaces for expression is central to my mission. I started workshops and group
therapy, where individuals could connect through shared experiences. These gatherings
fostered a sense of belonging and validation. Witnessing transformation within communities
has been one of my greatest joys. I welcome queer and trans folx, non-monogamous & kink communities, people living with disabilities and health conditions, health care professionals, and couples with different cultural backgrounds.
Learning and Growth
I'm always learning and expanding my knowledge and skill sets. I've attended many workshops and trainings on various topics including Expressive Arts, somatic approaches, dissociative disorders, i-CBT for OCD, trauma, Relational Life Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, TF-CBT, EMDR for additional populations (4 Blinks, EMD, attachment-focused, future, anxiety, addiction, dissociation)
Individual Sessions
In online individual sessions, we can use somatic exercises, breath, voice, movement, drama, writing, play, visual art, digital art, digital sandtray, EMDR, and parts work. If you have a personal art, writing, movement, drama, or musical practice, you can bring your creations and process into sessions.
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Couples and Family Sessions
Members participating in couples or family sessions can be in the same physical location or separate locations (anywhere within California is allowed; other states and countries vary). Couples sessions are a blend of psychoeducation, communication skills, focused emotional work, pattern identification and shifting, and individual and relational differentiation. I incorporate somatics, parts work, EMDR, and expressive arts in couples work when it is appropriate. I often assign homework between sessions, and sometimes work separately with members to practice skills, shift patterns of responses, or process past traumas.