I provide individual therapy to adults and teens. My individual work is tailored to meet my clients’ needs so it often looks different from client to client. Many adults come into therapy to receive support during a time of transition (such as a separation or change within a family system), to navigate a difficult emotional experience, for personal growth, or to address long term concerns that have been interfering with an ability to feel happy or fulfilled.
I create an environment that is non-judgemental, supportive and engaging. As a therapist, I pride myself in being a compassionate listener, actively engaged, direct and authentically me. I use a strengths perspective, meaning I recognize my clients’ strengths and we build from there. I do not operate from a deficit or pathological model. And just like in my work with couples or families, my role is to both support my client as it is to challenge him/her when this is necessary to promote sustainable change.
Even in my work with individuals, I use a systems/collaborative approach. A person’s well-being and life experience is not entirely separate from their relationships and interactions with others. This philosophy is evident in my therapy style and helps guide my work with clients. When I meet with an individual (adult or adolescent), I keep his/her family system in mind. This helps me understand better the context of their issue: how a family member or significant other touches on that issue or who is involved in the dynamic that could be more of a resource for my client. This is done without jeopardizing the confidentiality of the therapy because it occurs solely in my mind and in the therapy room.
Teens
I have over two decades of experience successfully working with teens. While some might feel intimidated or off-put by this age group, it is where I shine. This developmental phase of life can be a wonderful time to gain the support, skills and insight offered through a therapeutic relationship. I have been able to be helpful to many teens struggling with issues of anxiety, depression, family conflict, school difficulty, and gender/sexual identity.