Amanda Hayes
I work with teens and adults who may look like they’re doing okay but feel anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, grieving, or stuck underneath it all.
Together, we’ll make sense of what’s happening, find practical ways to cope, and help you feel more connected to yourself, your relationships, and the life you want. Therapy with me is collaborative and real, with space for hard conversations, quiet moments, and yes, even humor.
Together, we’ll make sense of what’s happening, find practical ways to cope, and help you feel more connected to yourself, your relationships, and the life you want.
First session
Our first session is really about getting to know you. We’ll talk about what brought you to therapy, what’s been feeling difficult, and what you hope might change. You don’t need to have all the answers or know where to start. I’ll ask questions, explain what working together could look like, and help us identify a few goals that feel realistic and meaningful to you.
Strengths
I communicate in a warm, honest, and down-to-earth way. I’ll listen without judgment, ask thoughtful questions, offer feedback, and gently challenge you when it may be helpful. Therapy with me is collaborative and real, with space for hard conversations, quiet moments, and yes, even some humor.
Ideal clients
I specialize in working with teens or adults who look like they’re holding it all together but feel anxious, overwhelmed, are grieving, or just feel disconnected underneath. They’re tired of overthinking, being the strong one, or pretending they’re fine. They want to feel understood without feeling like they are a burden to others, to make sense of what they’re experiencing, and to start feeling like themselves again
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use CBT to help you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected. Together, we’ll notice patterns that may be adding to your stress, question thoughts that aren't always helpful or accurate, and practice new ways of responding to difficult situations in everyday life.
Compassion-Focused
I use Compassion-Focused Therapy to help you develop a kinder, more understanding relationship with yourself. Together, we’ll explore self-criticism, guilt, and the pressure you put on yourself while practicing ways to respond to difficult thoughts and emotions with more patience and compassion.
Attachment-based
I use attachment-based therapy to help you understand how past relationships and experiences may influence the way you connect with others today. Together, we’ll explore patterns around trust, communication, and emotional needs so you can build healthier, more secure relationships with yourself and the people in your life.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you navigate difficult thoughts and emotions without letting them control your choices. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you, practice making room for uncomfortable feelings, and find ways to move toward the life you want, even when things feel hard.
Trauma-Informed Care
I use trauma-informed care to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and in control of your therapy experience. We’ll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, without pressure to share anything before you’re ready. Together, we’ll explore how past experiences may be affecting you today while focusing on building trust, understanding, and a greater sense of safety.
Location
Virtual sessions