Hello! Are you ready to take control of your mental health and overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or relationship issues? If you are looking for effective tools and guidance from a compassionate, experienced therapist, you’ve come to the right place. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 23 years of experience, and I am passionate about supporting my clients in managing their mental health and achieving their life aspirations. I have a diverse background, having worked with serious mental illnesses, addiction, and both inpatient and outpatient settings. Starting therapy can be daunting, but I want to make your journey a hopeful and positive experience. I utilize evidence-based approaches while frequently checking in to ensure you feel comfortable and recognize our progress together. My goal is to create a warm, safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and ultimately equip you with the skills to become your own therapist. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for you!
In our first session, we will discuss your current challenges and problems. I will ask about your mental health history, including any treatments you have received and what has or hasn’t worked for you. We will also start developing a treatment plan and determine how often we should meet.
My greatest strength is my ability to connect with clients and offer practical tools from the very first session to effectively manage life's challenges. I aim to be relatable and use humor to create a comfortable environment. With over 23 years of experience working with individuals and their families facing serious and persistent mental illness, addiction, depression, and anxiety, I possess the expertise to make a meaningful impact. Additionally, I have extensive experience collaborating with psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and physicians to ensure personalized and comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs.
I like to work with clients with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders. I prefer to work with those 18 and older. I also work well with clients that have experienced loss and trauma. I can relate to LGBTQ issues as I am a gay man and have worked with this population- not an expert in gender affirming surgery. I can work with addiction, especially with families, but I believe those in active drug and alcohol addiction may need in-person and more intensive services.
I often use present moment awareness/mindfulness, defusions skills with a focus on values and goals.
I assist my clients in identifying negative automatic thoughts that hinder their daily functioning, happiness, or the achievement of their goals. Together, we will analyze these thoughts for accuracy, as they are often distorted, particularly in cases of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. I will guide you in reframing and restructuring these thoughts while focusing on behaviors that can help manage your mood more effectively.
I regularly teach and promote mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
I have received training in EMDR through the EMDR Institute, and I understand how impactful this therapy can be for those who are struggling, particularly with PTSD. I carefully incorporate it into my practice when it feels right for my clients and when they are open to explore it. Your comfort and readiness are my top priorities.