Expert Support for Individuals, Couples, and Families with Mental Health and Substance Use Issues
My dual training and experience as a licensed psychologist and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) allows me to adeptly deal with the often-complex interaction of substance use and mental health problems.
In addition, my expertise in adolescent development allows me to offer a range of therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of everyone across the lifespan. Through evidence-based practices and a compassionate approach, I’m strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients to heal and improve their lives.
Don't wait any longer to take the first step towards a brighter future. Contact me now to schedule a personalized appointment and start your journey towards healing and personal growth.
Parenting Substance Using Teens
When you discover that your child is using substances, normal parental worry can escalate to fear. It's natural to feel helpless and out of control, especially when attempts to intervene fail. Fear and parenting don’t mix well. What we do know is that trusting our judgment, flexibility and being open to different approaches are cornerstones to effective parenting.
My work with families is family-centric and self-empowering. I'll collaborate with you to develop a road map and a plan to address your loved one's use based on your family's strengths and resources. I respect the uniqueness of each family and the right of people to make choices. I believe that parents know the most about what’s best for their families and I will collaborate with you to trust your instincts to build on existing strengths and overcome obstacles and barriers and create an individualized treatment plan based on your needs.
You know your children best. And you won't need to reinvent yourself as a parent. We can work together to help you develop some strategies and skills to maintain a healthy relationship with your substance using loved one and create healthy family boundaries.
I embrace CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) the only evidence-based family therapy specifically designed for families of substance users. CRAFT focuses on improving the family's relationship with their loved one, increases family members well-being and increases the likelihood of the person using substances to enter treatment
Parenting Teens & Young Adults
Adolescence and young adulthood is a period in our lifespan development where there are visible and tangible inflection points for change. It’s a fertile time for growth, offering young people opportunities to learn about themselves and life; and for parents to improve their relationships with their kids and become more empowered as parents.
Young people are “works in progress” and helping them and their family members understand difficulties with mood, which includes Major Depression and Bipolar Disorder as well as the emotional difficulties often associated with ADHD. We'll work together to develop more effective coping strategies for you to manage the emotions that may be disrupting your life.
My expertise in adolescence allows me to effectively work with parents, teens, and young adults to help sort out the often-complex issues associated with this age. I am skilled at helping young people and their parents develop tools and strategies to better cope with the challenges during this period.
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. Children with ADHD may also struggle with low self-esteem, troubled relationships, and poor performance in school. My work with teens and adults empowers them to develop accommodations and strategies to improve relationships and be more productive in school or work.
Family therapy can be very beneficial for parents who are navigating the distinct challenges of raising a child with ADHD. My work with parents empowers them to develop the problem-solving skills that are important for helping children achieve their full potential. I can help you better navigate the emotional difficulties often associated with ADHD and help you can create a more positive and supportive environment within your home.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is a normal biological reaction that occurs when our body is telling us that something isn’t right. But if anxiety becomes overwhelming and persistent, or if it interferes with regular daily activities, or makes them impossible, it may be an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders include excessive rumination/worrying, phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic attacks, and social anxiety. Understanding the nature of your anxiety and determining coping strategies will be the focus of our work together Anxiety is very treatable, and I'll work with you to develop effective coping skills to manage anxiety better.
Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Depression can affect people of all ages, including teens, in significant, often debilitating ways. Treatment for depression looks to empower people to better understand its causes and develop skills to manage emotions more effectively. Bipolar disorder, sometimes beginning in late adolescence, is characterized by changes in mood that range from extreme highs to deep lows.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help improve thought patterns, develop better emotional management skills, and learn mindfulness practices and strategies to help work through difficult situations. Increasing motivation to make lifestyle changes such as increasing social activities, improving sleep patterns, diet and exercise are also part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
We'll work together to develop more effective coping strategies for you to manage the emotions that may be disrupting your life.
Transform Your Life:
Telehealth Therapy for Healing and Growth!
Take the first step towards a brighter future today. Contact me to schedule a personalized telehealth appointment and embark on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
Please note: I am a 100% telehealth practice. While I do not participate in any insurance plans, some plans may reimburse patients for a portion of the cost of therapy. See my Fees page for more info.