Areas of Expertise
Emerging Adulthood
Turning 18 does not make someone an adult. The highest functioning region of the brain, the part that most makes us human, is the prefrontal cortex. It does not complete its development until approximately age 26, or later in those with ADHD. I specialize in working with emerging adults between the ages of approximately 15 and 30, a period of intense identity exploration and formation.
Substances
I am a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with extensive experience working with both adolescents and adults in residential and outpatient settings. I am a proponent of 12-Step programs, Refuge Recovery, Smart Recovery, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and any other approach which assists people to achieve and maintain sobriety or reduction of harm to self and others.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal human response designed by nature to activate us when faced with a threat. Sometimes this warning system goes haywire or kicks into overdrive when we are confronted with change, the unknown, the unfamiliar, or other lesser threats. I can help you learn to override or disempower these inappropriate and often debilitating anxiety responses.
Non-Verbal Learning Disorders
Non-Verbal Learning Disorder presents very much like Asperger’s, or very high functioning autism spectrum disorder, but with lesser severity. Nonetheless, these “non-mainstream” or “offbeat” individuals struggle greatly interpreting the social world and making themselves understood, wreaking havoc on their emotions and self-esteem.
Depression
People frequently confuse depression and sadness. Some of the most common signs of depression are sleep dysregulation, lethargy, irritability, and loss of interest in people and things we used to enjoy. I use an integrated therapeutic approach to help you address the root causes of your depression and have a network of prescribers should you feel medication is a consideration.
School Refusal
School refusal are two words no parent ever wants to hear. This can be one of the most profound and difficult challenges a parent will ever face. The attendant stresses can wreak havoc on the family unit and negatively impact every other family relationship. I work with families to help them understand their child’s pain and to develop appropriate and effective coping mechanisms for the entire family.
College Acclimation
College is one of the most exciting times of life but one also fraught with unexpected challenges and difficulties, some of which reach to the very core of our identity. I “follow” many clients to college, and “start” with many already there; we conduct virtual sessions via secure video platforms and my clients know support and perspective are always just a text away.
Family Issues
The web of family relationships is complex. The struggles of one member can stress or alter the entire family dynamic. Useing elements of Structural Family Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy, in addition to my MBCT (Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy) orientation, I help family members build greater self-awareness and better understand their roles in healing the family dynamic.