What are your areas of interest?

•         Improving communication and happiness in marriages and families

•         Navigating and coping with major life transitions

•         Grief and loss

•         Coping with chronic and acute medical illnesses

What therapy models do you use?

My approach has been influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems and Narrative Therapy. When I work with couples, I refer to the work of John Gottman.

How do I decide if talking to you will help?

Some people avoid therapy because of fear. But being fearful or stuck just reinforces isolation, anxiety and exhaustion. Other people don’t believe in therapy or are afraid of how it will look to others. But once they open up, they discover that others share their concerns. Being a therapist allows me to provide a safe place for you to explore your feelings, increase your compassion for yourself and others and improve your relationships. I will teach you specific coping skills in areas you choose to work on (such as communication, stress relaxation and being able to resolve current and past hurts). My hope is that you will be much more successful in your life, feel more emotionally balanced and happier. During or after we meet, you can decide if you feel emotionally safe with me and can talk about the issues that are the most vital to you.

How does therapy help?

 Therapy can help you make “shifts” in your thinking that allow you to develop a more objective and broader context with which to make choices about your behavior and the behavior of others.  For therapy to help, you have to do the work and be present in the fullest sense of the word. By looking at your vulnerabilities (which we all have, since we are human), accepting and acknowledging your capabilities and strengths, you will begin to feel more comfortable with yourself.

Why do people seek therapy?

Most people seek care at a time of crisis, loss or change. One chapter in your life may be ending or a new one beginning. Something feels wrong and sometimes our body gives us signals. Perhaps friends or family have encouraged you to seek advice.

How could I help you make the changes you desire?

We all want to make changes at times in our lives and know that intention isn’t always enough unless there is a plan as to how to achieve a needed shift. I will help you to identify the specific changes you seek, the risk of changing, and your belief in the possibility of making that change. I can also help you to develop the courage to take the steps that lead to meaningful change.  

What should I expect at my first session?

I will ask you about yourself and your immediate concerns, your family, your health and any other relevant information. I will tell you about myself and my approach and answer any questions you may have.  I may want to talk with a family member or a physician and will ask for your written permission to do this. Feel free to ask me any questions you have. 

What types of services do you offer?

I offer individual, couple and family therapy for adults, adolescents and children over 11. I also enjoy presenting workshops and classes in my community.

How can I schedule an appointment?

Call me or fill out the Contact Me page.

How much does it cost? Will you accept my insurance? Do you have a sliding scale?

I am an in-network provider for the following medical insurances and Employee Assistance Programs.

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross-Blue Shield

  • Cigna

  • ComPsych

  • Employee Resource Systems

  • Humana/Life Synch

  • LifeWorks

  • Medicare

  • Morneau Shepell

  • Prime Health

  • United Behavioral Health

  • Value Options

You can use Health Savings Accounts, out-of-network benefits or self-pay for sessions. I usually charge $100.00 an hour. I accept contracted rates if you use your insurance benefits. If you don’t have insurance or have an insurance plan I don’t take, I can offer a sliding fee in some situations.

I am also a member of the Open Path Psychotherapy Collective (openpathcollective.org.) I keep a few times open weekly for clients and offer discounted therapy fees.

Please give me at least 24-hour notice if you need to cancel a scheduled appointment. A $50.00 fee will be charged for a no-show or non-emergency cancellation.

 

Please call me if you have questions.