Individual Therapy

As a clinical social worker, I have experience treating a range of presenting concerns, including (but certainly not limited to) life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and dissociation. I also enjoy working with clients who want to explore their identities, personal histories, and relationship issues. My style is flexible, active, collaborative, and catered to best suit the needs of my clients. 

What to Expect

There are any number of reasons to seek therapy.  Perhaps you have been struggling with something that is getting in the way of living the life you want to be living, perhaps you want to process some events that had a big impact on you, perhaps you want to address a relationship problem, or process a transition you are going through, or perhaps you are seeking opportunities for continued growth. Regardless of your reason, starting therapy may be a bit anxiety provoking for some. Knowing a bit more about the process and what to anticipate can help relieve some of that initial stress.

Therapy is a lot like a conversation that's focused on you--your experiences, struggles, priorities, and values. I aim to make you more comfortable through my collaborative style. I'll actively engage in our conversation, especially if you're having trouble figuring out how to start, where to go or what to talk about. While I can help guide you through, you are the expert on yourself, and I aim to listen attentively and without judgment or expectations.

I always take a non-pathologizing stance.  In other words, I believe that we all face problems in our lives and that we can work together to help you develop a greater understanding of yourself and your presenting concerns, align with your values, and feel empowered to make desired changes in your life.  I will value your strengths and want to help you draw from them to meet your own goals. I also have skills and expertise that I will readily share to help you cope with struggles and reach your goals.

Prior to setting up our first in-office appointment, we will schedule a 15-minute call. During the call, we will discuss what brings you to therapy and any general goals. It may be the case that you don't have answers to these questions yet. That's okay. It'll likely unfold during the therapy.

The call will also give you a better sense of how we might work together. This is an opportunity for us to determine whether I seem like a good fit for you and if I can meet your current needs. Finally, it's a chance for you to ask me questions about my practice. If it seems like we might work well together, we'll set up an initial (intake) appointment as soon as possible.

If it doesn't seem like a good fit, I may be able to refer you to a different therapist who I think might be closer to what you're looking for.

Initially, I meet with clients once weekly (on a regular day and time, if possible). In addition, we will work towards some general or more specific goals of therapy, which we will define together. We will continue revisiting your goals and treatment throughout our work together, and it is normal for these goals to evolve over time. How long this takes to reach your goals, how frequently we meet and how we approach the therapy is unique and different for everyone. 

The Process

Real change takes time, and it is helpful to try to be patient with yourself and the process.  Talking and developing greater insight into your feelings, experiences, and relationships can have a profound impact on your outlook and behavior.  What happens outside our sessions also matters. I will work to support you in developing practices and behaviors and connecting with resources outside of therapy to help you reach your goals.

If you're having doubts or questions about whether therapy is for you, consider reaching out for a free-phone consult. I can help you consider all your options for gaining support, including therapy.