develop tools to regulate emotions such as anger, and working with couples to help them improve their relationship or if they decide to separate, helping them negotiate a separation agreement through mediation.

I use a variety of therapeutic methods in my work with clients. In our initial meeting I help the client determine his/her goals for therapy and learn how they have previously tried to achieve these goals or solve the problems in the past. In order to understand the problem it is usually necessary to obtain some history, but I try to keep our focus as much as possible on the present and the future.

In my work with individuals I have been especially pleased with the success clients have achieved using CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). These methods along with a solutions oriented approach in discussing what is happening and what clients want to have happen make up the major part of the work I do. Often clients may be experiencing a biologically-based depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder which requires medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. In these situations I refer the client to either Bill Philip MD or Margy Bookman CNS who are able to evaluate and prescribe medications which assist the clients in achieving mental health.

With couples I employ several approaches. My first goal is usually to help couples find ways to talk to each other about their concerns so they can work together as a team to improve things. I help each individual recognize his/her own needs so that together they can meet these needs. Couple therapy usually involves “homework” since talking just once each week is not enough to develop a strong and happy relationship.

I truly appreciate the opportunity to work with clients and enjoy seeing the growth they can achieve. If I can provide further information about myself or how I work I can be contacted by phone and would be willing to arrange a brief meeting so we can determine if we would be a good fit. I have office hours during the day Monday-Thursday and on some Fridays and also in the evening. I accept most insurance and will work with those who do not have insurance to help make therapy affordable.