My Approach to Helping
Most folks I work with tell me that the hardest part of therapy was coming in for the first appointment. I understand how vulnerable it feels to reach out to someone to discuss very personal details of your life, thoughts, and feelings that you don't share with others. A respectful, non-judging relationship is one of the most important parts of a relationship with a therapist.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working with individuals and couples for the past 20 years, I strive to maintain that respectful, dignified, and judgement-free space so you can explore the necessary parts of your life that need attention. Using the strengths you already have, we move towards getting rid of behaviors, thoughts, and patterns that don't work for you anymore and replace them with healthier alternatives.
It is important to understand that talk therapy is very beneficial but sometimes people with specific challenges such as depression may benefit from medication. If I feel that you need to see a psychiatrist (a medical doctor who specializes in prescribing psychotropic medications), I will refer you for a medication evaluation. If needed, you would see the psychiatrist for medication, but continue to see me for talk therapy.
More Info About My Practice
I accept the following insurance plans: Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Cigna, UBHUHC, and Aetna. To simplify your therapy experience, I will file your insurance claim for you. If you do not have medical insurance, please discuss what options are available. I offer daytime hours as well as evening hours one day a week.
I am currently seeing all clients via telehealth on the Doxy.me platform. It is a HIPAA secure platform that does not require clients to create accounts nor does it require passwords. Clients can use their computer, tablet or phone.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
Because of my own mindfulness meditation practice, I especially enjoy working with issues related to anxiety, depression, addiction, emotional eating and body image issues, and adult ADHD.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
The transformation that people make going through the therapeutic process is awe inspiring. It is a privilege to be on the therapeutic journey as someone changes, gets stronger, and experiences more clarification with each session.
How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist
I am not shy about letting my clients know that I have benefitted from therapy. Not only benefitted, but I thoroughly appreciated (enjoyed, even) the process. Not every session was easy, but the hard work was well worth it. As a life long learner, I continue to read, work, and learn in an effort to experience as much joy and contentment in my life as possible. It has been said that pain is inevitable and suffering is optional. I strive to reduce the suffering in my life and have the same hope for others.
