My Approach to Helping
We can do so much in our work together!
-explore thoughts and emotions
-strengthen coping skills
-enhance self-knowledge and esteem
-refine communication techniques
-heal the wounds of life
Whatever you choose to work on, you will experience a warm and caring environment where the focus is entirely on you. You CAN feel differently than you do today! And you don’t have to do it alone.
I provide personal therapy for individuals and couples, as well as clinical supervision for therapists in training. I have worked with school-aged youth for twenty years, so developmental issues, parenting, and blended families are some of my specialty areas. I also specialize in healthy communication, conflict resolution, ADHD, LGBTQ+, and personal emotional issues. Restoring and strengthening the bonds between daughters and their mothers is a particular interest of mine.
I am currently accepting new clients for phone or video sessions. Some sessions may be held in my home office, according to comfort level and our best judgment.
I am a clinical counselor and social worker focused on genuinely understanding my clients and their perspectives on the issues they bring to our work. In the process of listening attentively and exploring my clients' concerns, they gain clarity on their own thoughts and feelings. I believe everyone has abilities that can be used and strengthened to address their challenges and become more satisfied with life. I help people identify their positive qualities and use them effectively to make the changes they desire. Whether working with individuals, couples, or family groups, I find that deep listening and courageous communication help uncover the answers to most problems.
More Info About My Practice
I have been working with children, families, and couples for over twenty years. My full-time job for the past twenty years has been as a public school counselor addressing social-emotional issues. I love my work, and much of what I have learned over the years apply directly to the client issues I support in private practice therapy. Families with school-age children are welcome to consult me on any issues that arise for them.
Mothers and daughters hold a special place in my heart. You may wish to engage in therapy together to improve communication, increase your understanding of each other, clear up misunderstandings, or heal wounds. Or she may not be ready, able, or interested in committing to therapy. In that case, you and I can work together to increase your own understanding, self-regard, coping skills, and emotional health.
I also love working with couples: married, committed, or questioning... connected romantically or through family ties. I believe in helping people who care about each other talk and listen with their hearts. Conflicts tend to resolve themselves when people speak honestly and really listen to each other. Please contact me to see if I might be able to help you with a relationship issue.
Please see my website for more detailed information on my practice. In addition to personal therapy, I also provide supervision for professionals working toward clinical licensure. I have experience in supervising individuals from a wide range of practice environments. Thanks for viewing my profile!
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
Unfortunately, I have known many people who have, including myself. This is one of the reasons I routinely provide free initial consultations with individuals, since a good match between personalities and perspectives is at the core of a successful therapeutic relationship. Therapists come from an incredibly wide range of schools of thought and individuals respond differently to various styles. It can be frustrating to make a decision to seek therapy and then struggle to find someone who understands you and seems to offer useful assistance. If you feel uncomfortable with the way a therapist works with you or you don't understand any of their methods, it is appropriate and acceptable to ask them for clarification. If their explanations still don't make sense or feel right after openly discussing it, you may consider interviewing another therapist to see if their style feels more compatible with your own. Try not to give up... you are sure to find someone to help you make the changes you desire!
Theoretical Influences that Guide My Work
I am a trauma-informed therapist who approaches clients gently and at a pace adjusted to their comfort level. I believe in the importance of thorough assessment to ensure that we treat the core of the presenting problem. Many of my interventions stem from a Cognitive-Behavioral approach, which focuses on the effect of our thoughts on our feelings and actions. I also honor the strength and resilience of each individual to keep on trying to bounce back and be happy. I understand the power of entities beyond one's control and the different ways people manage those relationships. I believe in the power of kindness. And I believe that, ultimately, therapy is two imperfect humans sitting across from one another in a room sharing a powerful experience that can be meaningful and beneficial for each of them.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.