Bisexual Therapists in Acton, MA

My expertise is in the area of major loss (illness, aging, dying, significant life change, bereavement) also caregiving and end-of-life planning. Such challenges are often overwhelming, even immobilizing. A person can feel they have hit a brick wall, and may feel depressed, hopeless, anxious or numb. When they are able to be present to it they may discover surprising gifts, such as inner resources they might not know are there, ways to take better care of themselves, and new understanding of what is most important to them. Some people find that, amazingly, life can be transformed in ways that make it richer than ever.

Some concerns that bring people to me are their experience of loneliness, depression, and anxiety; feelings of worry, emptiness, and sadness; a search for connection and meaning in relationships and work; life transitions; perfectionism; self-doubt; relationship difficulties; divorce; searching for life direction and a sense of purpose; loss and grief; and exploration of identity. I work with people through collaborative, interactive conversation to help them gain insight, to develop strategies to approach their life challenges, and to feel known and understood. People describe me as empathic, genuine, and with a sense of humor.

I enjoy working closely with individuals to help find the inner wisdom and self-compassion necessary to achieve desired change. Using a a foundation of psychodynamic theory, attachment/developmental theory and relational models, I tailor therapy for each client with the goal of supporting better functioning and wellness.

With over 20 years of experience in the field of helping others, I have learned that making a genuine connection with people is the best way in which to begin the work of therapy. One of the most important skills I have to offer is to carefully and compassionately listen to what you have to say. We then go from there; when you are ready, we begin to look at how to change.

Each of us has many parts that work with our core selves to make decisions, develop beliefs, and experience life. If you're struggling to find internal harmony, I can help. We will examine your thoughts, feelings, wants, and needs-- and then explore ways you can make the changes you want. Because so much in this world is vying for your attention, my job is to help you listen to yourself.

It is never too early or late in life to seek growth and find healthier ways to manage life's struggles. Whether you are experiencing a life transition or would like support for a long-standing concern, I will partner with you in working towards your goals, and developing new ways of thinking and living with emotions. I see adolescents and adults with a wide-range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, perinatal mental health, and major life transitions. My particular specializations are dual diagnosis/co-occurring disorders, trauma, and mood disorders, and I am Level 1 trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who has worked in the field of Mental Health and Substance Use disorders for twenty+ years. I am especially concerned for, not only the person who uses, but the people who have been affected by a loved one's behaviors, be it substance use or something else. Often dealing with a loved one's issues can cause significant impairment in your own life and mental health. Self-care is essential if you are going to live a sane and happy life. To help someone else, it is of upmost importance to have support and help for yourself.

Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.

Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently all meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.

As a therapist with over 10 years of experience in the field, I know how transformative therapy can be and how important it is to feel good about yourself, confident in your place in the world, and secure in your relationships. I work with couples to help them create more connected and meaningful relationships. "Being the “best you can be” is really only possible when you are deeply connected to another.."- Dr. Sue Johnson. I also specialize is working with individuals who are struggling with symptoms if PTSD. Trauma is an injury to the brain, mind, and body. The good thing about injuries, is that healing is possible.

"Today is the first day of the rest of your life." We can work together to help you to reach your goals and live life more fulfilled. I will help you build a 'tool kit' of coping strategies that you can draw from. I have worked with individuals for 20+ years. I take an active approach to help my clients find solutions and reach their goals. Together we can set goals and track progress to make sure you are satisfied.

I strive to help people find a more comfortable and richer relationship with themselves and the world around them. Drawing upon many years of clinical experience and my own personal journey, I assist clients to address their relationship difficulties, internal critics and stuck patterns of behavior with curiosity and compassion. Clients discover the energy within themselves to approach the world with less fear and more playfulness. My priority is always to create a safe, supportive environment. I enjoy getting to know my clients and am very grateful that I get to do the work I do.

I am a seasoned psychologist and psychotherapist with more than 35 years experience. For most of my career I have divided my time between private practice and the training and supervision of family and couples therapists through the former Family Institute of Cambridge where I was a senior faculty member. I have also taught Advanced Family Therapy at the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology. Presently I am a private practitioner. I see individuals, couples and families.