Parenting

Becoming a parent is a transformative journey that often presents significant challenges alongside opportunities for personal growth. The adjustments required to maintain healthy relationships with partners, family, and friends can be daunting. The task of balancing work responsibilities with family life further compounds this complexity.

By engaging in this reflective process, parents can embrace the challenges of new roles with greater confidence and purpose.

The journey of parenthood, whether through birth, adoption, or fostering, brings unparalleled joy and unique challenges. Each child's arrival reshapes our lives, creating bonds that deeply affect us. However, this profound experience can be shadowed by the grief of losing a child, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, or termination. Together, we explore the impact of these experiences on parents' mental health, relationships, and overall well-being, fostering growth and healing in the face of such heartache. My aim is to provide a safe space for parents to grieve, reflect, and ultimately find a path toward healing, while honoring the unique journey each family has taken.

Here we understand that finding time for self-care can be challenging, especially for parents. Walking and Talking therapy sessions allow you to bring your child in a stroller or carrier while engaging in meaningful discussions about your concerns. Embrace the opportunity to process your feelings in a supportive environment, all while enjoying the fresh air and the outdoors with your little one by your side.

Families

Families are indeed intricate webs of relationships, each member contributing unique thoughts, emotions, and life experiences to the dynamic. Navigating these complexities often necessitates flexibility and adaptability. Counseling services offer a supportive environment where families can explore and address their challenges, ultimately fostering deeper connections.

In my practice, I focus on helping families who are facing the heavy burdens of addiction, the shifts brought by divorce or separation, the challenges associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities, and the profound impacts of death and illness. By engaging in counseling, families can learn to communicate more effectively, process their feelings, and develop healthier coping strategies. This process not only aids in resolving conflicts but also cultivates empathy and understanding among family members, paving the way for stronger, more resilient family bonds.

I have extensive experience working with children both in therapeutic preschools and through contracted work with our local school districts.

Adolescents

Becoming an adult is a process of individuation, identity formation, and an exploration of values. I have worked extensively with young adults as they navigate their evolving sense of self and their interactions with the world around them. This journey often brings to the forefront issues such as stress reduction, well-being, career exploration, self-esteem, and relationships.

In our sessions, we delve into the complexities of this transitional phase, addressing feelings of confusion, hope, and loneliness. Together, we seek to understand the challenges that arise and develop effective coping strategies. This collaborative approach allows for deeper insights into personal values and aspirations, enabling individuals to forge meaningful connections with themselves and others. Through this exploration, young adults can better align their actions with their emerging identities and navigate the intricacies of adulthood with greater resilience and confidence.

Common issues include:

Stress Management and Overwhelm: Many may experience stress due to the demands of academics and extracurricular activities. Techniques for managing stress can help individuals cope effectively and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Athletic Pressures and Performance Issues: For student-athletes, the pressure to perform can lead to heightened anxiety levels. Addressing these pressures is essential for both mental health and optimal performance.

Anxiety: Social anxiety is particularly prevalent among young people, impacting their ability to engage socially. Therapeutic interventions can assist in developing coping strategies and fostering resilience.

Depression: Feelings of sadness and hopelessness are common, especially during significant transitions. Understanding the signs of depression and seeking help is crucial.

Body Image Issues: Young people often face unrealistic standards regarding body image, which can lead to low self-esteem and other mental health concerns. Supportive counseling can promote a healthier self-image.

Substance Abuse: Experimentation with substances can be a response to peer pressure or emotional distress. Addressing substance use issues early can prevent long-term negative outcomes.

Coping with Social Pressure and Party Culture: Navigating party culture and social expectations can be overwhelming. Developing strong coping mechanisms is vital for maintaining personal boundaries and mental health.

Figuring Out Post-Graduation Goals: Uncertainty about the future, such as career choices or further education, can contribute to anxiety. Counseling can help explore interests and clarify goals.

Dating Issues: Relationships can bring joy but also confusion and stress. Open discussions about dating challenges can promote healthy relationship dynamics.

Peer Pressure and Social Anxiety: The pressure to conform to peers can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and lead to poor decision-making. Strategies to build confidence and assertiveness can be beneficial.

Parent/Sibling Struggles: Conflicts with family members, including parents and siblings, can create significant emotional distress. Communication skills and family therapy might help in navigating these challenges effectively.

By addressing these common issues through individual or group counseling, individuals can find support and develop tools to promote their mental health and well-being.