LCSW, 24 years of experience
Hi! I’m Barb, Do you feel like you are searching? Searching for the reasons why you are unhappy in your relationships or lack of relationships? Searching for the reasons why you are unhappy in your career? Searching for the reasons you feel run down and uninspired? Searching for the reasons why you keep repeating the same addictive patterns that do not turn out to have positive outcomes? Searching for the right therapist!? I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience. My practice includes individuals and couples suffering from relationship problems, addiction, depression, grief and loss, anxiety and stress. I would like to help you discover what you are searching for and why you feel you do not deserve more out of life. My role is to help you end the search and discover the negative messages that you tell yourself that hinder you from becoming the person you truly are. Looking forward to meeting you!
In our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, then dive into the specific challenges you're facing. This will help me create a tailored plan for us to work through in follow-up sessions.
I use CBT and EMDR to work with clients with trauma, fears and cognitive distortions.
If you are anxious, stressed out, feeling controlled by others, feel depressed, trapped by negative self-talk, are grief-stricken, or stuck in unfulfilling relationships, therapy can help you explore your perspective of life, uncover your unique strengths, have more control of your emotions, create healthy boundaries and help you move closer towards the life you want. Common issues I have experience in: Low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy Addiction Depression, anxiety, feelings of guilt and shame Experiences of loss and grief Emotional regulation and coping skills Life transition such as parenting, dealing with aging parents, retirement, divorce Past traumas – sexual abuse, psychological and verbal abuse, neglect, sexual assault Stressful work environment/burnout and work/life balance
In my therapy practice, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a cornerstone treatment modality. CBT helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their challenges. By teaching clients to recognize distortions in thinking and adopt healthier coping strategies, CBT promotes lasting improvements in mood, behavior, and overall well-being. I integrate CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and homework assignments tailored to each client's specific needs and goals, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic process.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy modality primarily used to address trauma and distressing memories. In my practice, EMDR involves guiding clients to recall traumatic memories while focusing on external stimuli like hand tapping or eye movements. This process aims to reprocess these memories, reducing their emotional impact and integrating more adaptive thoughts. EMDR is structured, with phases focusing on history-taking, preparation, desensitization, installation of positive cognition, and closure. It can be integrated alongside other therapeutic approaches to support comprehensive treatment goals.