Therapist Profile

My Approach to Helping

Therapy is a process of self-exploration, which leads to a clearer, more authentic, and accepting experience of yourself and others. If you are reading this, it may mean there is an area in your life where you are confused, stuck, or troubled. This may be a difficult time in your life, or in the life of someone close to you. Thank you for taking the time to read about my practice.

Talking with a therapist is often a key to moving forward in life. It is at times a gentle, supporting process and at other times challenging. This combination of support and pushing yourself emotionally leads to greater self-awareness and can bring about a sense of connection, freedom, wholeness, and wellness within you.

My philosophy is that, even if buried deep beneath the surface, we have the capacity to face our fears and overcome adversity. This is an ideal I carry with me in my work as a psychologist, and I aim to impart a sense of non-judgmental compassion.

My view is that therapy is a collaborative process. Together we will identify the challenges you face in life, explore what may be blocking you from change, and understand your thoughts and feelings more deeply. With an open mind, a variety of life experiences, and advanced professional training in depth psychology, we will work together toward positive changes in your life at a pace that is comfortable to you.

Children: Many children have a hard time understanding their emotions and talking about their troubles and worries. That's why I use the imaginative and creative theater of play and art to help them express themselves. Through play and art, children learn about themselves and become more effective communicators, all leading to greater self-esteem. I teach children to role play conflicts and generate new solutions. Kids find this very empowering!

Teens: If you're a teen, or a parent of one, you know how tricky this period of life can be. Teens today are dealing with so many pressures and trying to manage the onset of intense emotions. Common pressures include academic stress, drugs and alcohol, body image, sexuality, and family issues. In therapy, teens begin to understand why they feel the way they do and how to manage their intense emotions. Because adolescence is a time to learn how to become independent in preparation for adulthood, teens can expect a high level of confidentiality in their sessions. I am very careful to respect this privacy when keeping parents apprised of their teen's progress.

Couples: Would you like to communicate more effectively without hurting your partner and without sabotaging yourself? At any stage of a relationship, couples therapy can help partners understand and respect each other better and stop reacting and making assumptions about each other. For lasting change, you and your partner can learn how you may be repeating behaviors and dynamics from your families of origin. You don't have to wait until your marriage is falling apart. Counseling can help you figure out what's right for you so you can begin to build the relationship you've always wanted!

Amicable Divorce/Conflict Resolution: I believe firmly that healthy divorce is possible. I can help you negotiate this very sensitive time in your life. If you have children, this is of the utmost importance. Your marriage may end, but you will be tied together through your children, and they need you to be able to get along. Learning to have a respectful parenting relationship is the most significant gift you can give yourself and your kids during this difficult time. There is a solution if both parents are willing.

More Info About My Practice

Psychological Testing and Assessment:
- AD/HD
- Anxiety/Mood Disorders
- Adoption
- Weight Loss Surgery

Fees: $100-$175, sliding scale available.
Insurance: All PPO plans accepted as an out-of-network provider.