Welcome, and thanks for stopping by my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in northeast Connecticut. I have two adult daughters, a loving partner, and a spoiled rescue cat. I began working in Human Services in 2007, and have held a number of Human Services jobs in management/ leadership roles. But my favorite job is the one I do now - being a therapist and working with resilient and unique people like you. I utilize common-sense and integrative therapy approaches...Simply said, You and I will use whatever therapy modality makes sense to you and helps you feel and be your personal best.
Our first session together will largely focus on the symptoms you currently experience. This is called an assessment, and to be 100% honest, it's likely the least enjoyable session we will ever have together. After the assessment is completed, in our second and subsequent sessions, we will truly begin to get to know one another and figure out the best ways to move forward toward the "you" under the symptoms...You remember that person? He/she/they is still here - just waiting to be rediscovered.
I know my strengths lie in my empathy, compassion, patience, and ability to challenge each and every client's mind and heart. Without empathy and compassion, therapy feels unsafe and unsupportive. Without challenging conversations, therapy feels like small talk in a convenience store.
I currently work with adults, and older adults. If you value a counselor who is 100% present in sessions, has a warm demeanor, and is patient with your fast or slow pace, we will be a great fit. Clients who benefit from , and enjoy, debate and deep-dive discussions report that I am "a good fit" for them.
I invite you to join with me on a CBT journey. CBT is the #1 evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety. This method of psychotherapy makes "good common-sense" to most people and can help you begin to easily understand your challenges with greater nuance. CBT is the bedrock upon which many people build a new life, and I have worked with this modality for 5 years.
Often referred to as "loving kindness," CFT strives to increase your insight and understanding toward yourself and others. CFT helps to quiet embarrassment and process shame, as well as negative/over-critical internal voices. CFT incorporates concepts from CBT, Buddhism, and human evolution. I have 5 years' experience with this modality.
Feminist Therapy...definitely not just for straight, white women! This modality acknowledges the cultural, social, and relational inequities you face each and every day. Feminist Therapy strives to view personal challenges through a wider-lens. I have worked with Feminist Therapy for 5 years.
We can use DBT to help regulate your emotional state, feel more present in the now, and improve your ability to tolerate uncomfortable feelings. DBT is the #1 recommended treatment modality for individuals with personality disorders or long-term problems in relationships. I have worked with DBT for 5 years and am a certified DBT therapist.
EMDR is the #1 evidence-based treatment for the suffering associated with traumatic stress. Horrifying memories, feeling unsafe and afraid much of the time, unexplained feelings of guilt or shame, and nightmares...Since my magic wand is in the shop, let's utilize scientifically-proven tools to process distressing memories in a new and different way...EMDR helps you feel safer, and to live in TODAY instead of in your past. I am currently in the certification process, but am fully trained in this modality.