Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

We all experience unhelpful or unhealthy thoughts at times. Before I began this work, I didn’t fully realize how much these thoughts can get in the way of impacting our decision-making, relationships, and how we view ourselves and the world around us. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most well-researched and effective treatment approaches for a wide range of mental health concerns, which is why it has become one of my preferred modalities. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be, especially in helping children and adolescents gain insight and feel more in control of their emotions and behaviors. In our work together, we’ll start by identifying triggers that lead to unhelpful thoughts, often the “false stories” we tell ourselves and carry with us. From there, we’ll work collaboratively to challenge and reframe those thoughts, replacing them with healthier, more balanced ways of thinking. Over time, this process can help reduce emotional distress, improve coping skills, and allow you to feel lighter and more confident in navigating daily life.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is rooted in cognitive therapy and focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, but it is specifically designed for individuals who experience emotions very intensely. The core goal of DBT is to help clients better understand and accept difficult emotions while learning new, effective ways to respond to them. In our work together, we will focus on building practical skills that support emotional balance and healthier coping. We’ll explore the four core components of DBT: distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. Through learning and practicing these skills, clients can gain greater emotional awareness, improve relationships, and feel more confident managing life’s challenges.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, strengths-based approach that helps clients explore ambivalence and build internal motivation for change. Rather than telling clients what to do, this approach focuses on meeting them where they are and supporting them in identifying their own reasons for change. In our sessions, we will work together to explore goals, values, and barriers that may be getting in the way. This approach is especially helpful for youth who feel stuck, resistant, or unsure about taking the next step, as it promotes autonomy, confidence, and meaningful engagement in the therapeutic process.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, non-pathologizing approach that views each person as having different “parts” that develop as a way to cope with life experiences. Some parts may feel protective, while others may carry emotional pain, especially following stress or trauma. Using an IFS-informed approach, we will work to better understand these parts with curiosity and compassion rather than judgment. This process helps clients build self-awareness, emotional regulation, and internal balance, allowing them to feel more connected to themselves and better equipped to respond to challenges.