Sheila Read, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Have you been trying to make changes but feel stuck? You try to do the right thing, but often feel anxious and like you're just not good enough. You take care of everyone else's needs but can't seem to justify spending time on yourself. You may struggle with messages you learned as a child that make you feel inferior and like you have to control things. I specialize in working with people affected by childhood trauma from dysfunctional families. Your childhood may have felt unsafe or chaotic because of alcoholism, mental illness, divorce, or death in the family. Or you felt your emotional needs weren't being met, but couldn't understand why, as your family was stable and met your material needs. Perfectionistic, controlling, critical, or distant parents can damage self-esteem and the ability to manage emotions in lasting ways, even if at times they show up as loving. I am gentle, yet challenging, with a collaborative approach to therapy. I have 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker. We start therapy by getting clear on your goals and understanding what is getting in the way. Early on in our work, I teach practical tools to manage anxiety and other distressing emotions. I also specialize in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), which reprocesses old memories so you can let go of the past and have a fulfilling life. EMDR helps you stop being triggered by old stuff and develop self-esteem based on an adult perspective on reality. I love helping you celebrate and strengthen your progress as you achieve your goals.