LCSW, 28 years of experience
New to Grow
I am passionate about providing quality care to adolescents and families. Intervention focuses on client defined goals for positive change. I help clients to learn and practice healthy coping skills and the confidence to use these skills both inside and outside of therapy. I specialize in helping parents, teens and young people to navigate the challenges of the transition to adulthood. I work to create a safe space of security, trust, and comfort, where sensitive personal narratives can be shared and explored. I used strength-based counseling to help teens, couples and families learn and practice resilience. Skills of emotional expression, assertiveness, and confidence are modeled and practiced within and between sessions so clients feel comfortable using these skills in their every day lives. I also help couples to communicate better and support the healing process. With help, a foundation can be built around a peaceful, open and honest relationship where both people feel heard, recognized and understood. I also specialize in help clients and families coping with chronic illness. One of the highlights of my career was publishing a curriculum called "REACH-OUT" (Rapport, Empowerment, Advocacy, Connection in Healthcare and Optimal Understanding of Transition to Adulthood. I have run groups in both the hospital and private practice for more than twenty years. I have discovered that no matter what illness people are living with, there are many common life altering changes that need to be recognized and adapted to for optimal health and functioning. The REACH-OUT groups are designed to help participants feel more in control of their bodies and the decisions they make in their lives.
Our initial session will begin wherever you are. You will be asked about what areas you would like to work on and we will decide which interventions can be used to address any challenges you are having. All counseling is strength based and helps you to develop confidence and resilience. You will get a feeling for my style and can determine whether my skills meet your needs and comfort level. I strive to provide an environment that is non-judgmental and geared toward supporting you through your journey to better mental, emotional and physical health.
As a Clinical Social Worker, I have developed a high level of skill to help even the most resistant clients. I understand that the decision to begin counseling takes courage and vulnerability and I believe strongly in the power of people to change negative thoughts and actions with the right education and practice.
I am educated and feel skilled in working with adolescents, young adults and families. While about seventy percent of my practice was focused on the transition from youth to adulthood, I am also comfortable working with adults and have worked effectively with people of all ages and cultures. I have also worked extensively with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to help them to become comfortable with their own identities and navigating relationships.
Attachment- based therapy is a scientifically proven treatment method and I have had extensive training in both Attachment-based and attachment based family therapy. Treatment is considered from this perspective, as this is where I have observed the most progress with clients
ACT is a treatment method based on helping clients to think flexibly to help clarify goals and interventions. It uses many metaphors and stories to exemplify how the concepts can be applied in every day life. It is scientifically proven to alleviate depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
I have been trained and have practiced systemic family therapy for many years. This intervention focuses around the family system and how each person contributes to the functioning of the individuals as they affect one another. When one person changes their behavior and communication, the entire system benefits.
I have extensive training and practice using cognitive behavioral therapy to educate patients about ways in which thoughts influence both thoughts and actions. This includes teaching slowing things down and mindfulness to help clients reframe more positive narratives and better self -care and self compassion.