My Approach to Helping

Are anxiety, self-criticism, or perfectionism getting in the way of you enjoying your life? Do you find yourself being compassionate and patient with loved ones, but harsh and unforgiving with yourself? Do you believe, deep down, that beating yourself up is a necessary part of achieving your goals?

There is another way to be ambitious, hard-working, and successful without constant anxiety and self-judgment. You can change your relationship with your inner critic without sacrificing your drive, your edge, your identity. I create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can explore what isn't working for you and make tangible changes for the better. I also help you uncover strengths that may have been buried for a long time.

I incorporate wisdom from mindfulness meditation practices as well as from cutting-edge research in neurobiology. You can make real progress toward reducing anxiety and self-criticism, lifting depression, and building more honest and intimate connections with those you love.

I work with adults in all stages of life, and specialize in working with teens and young adults. Every phase of life has its challenges. Wherever you are on your journey, I can help you build resilience and make real progress towards becoming your best self.

More Info About My Practice

Take the next step towards feeling better -- call now to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if I can be of help.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

One of my specialties is working with perfectionism and the "inner critic" -- that voice inside that judges, condemns, berates us. For some, this voice is so loud and overpowering that it wreaks havoc on self-esteem and general happiness and well-being. I understand what it is like to have a harsh inner judge, and I know how to help. By exploring what that inner judge is afraid of, what it's trying to protect you from, you can find new ways to listen and respond. Together we can transform that voice into something that supports you to be your best self, rather than something that holds you back.

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

I find it so powerful to sit face-to-face with another human being, to listen intently, care deeply, and be fully present, no electronic devices to distract us. I feel honored to be let in to each person's unvarnished truth, to be allowed to accompany each person to their darkest and brightest places. I love being part of the healing process, helping people find their inner strengths and become their best selves.

On the Fence About Going to Therapy?

Therapy is an investment in *you*. It is an investment in your health, both physical and mental, because as we are learning more and more the two are deeply connected. It is an investment in your success -- in your career, your relationships, your creative work, and your happiness. Most people devote time, energy, and money to taking care of their bodies by going to the gym, doctors, exercise classes, and organic farmers' markets. The rest of you deserves some love and attention too. Check out this recent blog post on my web site for more about the investment of therapy: http://annmarietherapy.com/money-can-buy-some-happiness-but-therapy-buys-more/

How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist

I have grappled with perfectionism most of my life. I know the pain that comes with unreasonably high expectations and never feeling "good enough." I also know the delicious relief that comes from changing your relationship to your inner judge. I know how much more productive and creative work can be when motivated by self-compassion instead of self-criticism, and how much more connected and loving relationships can be without an inner critic distorting everything. I understand the pain of depression, anxiety, and perfectionism, and I know a few ways out of these traps.