I have more than 18 years of experience in helping children, teens and young adults resolve issues such as anxiety, difficulties with peer relationships, dealing with grief and loss, recovery from substance abuse, poor academic performance and developing life and social skills.  In addition, I specialize in individual and family therapy for children with behavior problems. I work closely with parents, giving concrete and pragmatic advice designed to help them get their children's behavior under control. I work with the school system and any outside consultants that the family deems necessary to ensure the best results for their child. In therapy, I engage children and adolescents in a warm therapeutic relationship that encourages them to play about, talk about and solve problems while building the skills they need to succeed.

As a therapist my approach is psychodynamic, relational and solution focused.  My adult patients are supported and engaged in the process as they learn to reduce their anxiety and emotional reactivity, while raising their awareness and sense of self-efficacy.

Change is accomplished by helping patients learn to live in the present moment and build skills as they come into better relationship with themselves and others. Patients are encouraged to acknowledge their strengths and are guided as they learn to listen to their own intuitive voice and wisdom.

When desired I assist patients in integrating mindful and contemplative practices to support their treatment and overall sense of well being.  Mindfulness is a practice in the Eastern tradition that encourages one to live in awareness of moment to moment experience with acceptance, curiosity and openness.  Through mindfulness, meditation and contemplative practices one can learn to increase their capacity to bear difficult experience, tolerate and reduce stress and alleviate suffering.  Clinical research has shown mindfulness based treatment to be effective in the treatment of stress, anxiety, depression and chronic pain as well as many other issues that effect our well-being.

Another area of expertise is in helping families cope with the complex array of issues surrounding divorce, remarriage and the blended family.  The transition through divorce or remarriage presents a wide array of issues that have emotional, legal, financial and other consequences. Each phase of the process from the initial decision to the actual event and the aftermath creates challenges that require thoughtful consideration.  Families can and do re-establish themselves and go on to create stable, supportive and loving environments for themselves and their children. I believe that divorced and remarrying parents as well as their children benefit from therapeutic guidance, support and advice as they work to ensure the best possible adjustment for their family.