Parenting Therapists in 01720

Photo of Megan Elizabeth Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Megan Elizabeth Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
(617) 340-7138 View (617) 340-7138
Photo of John T. Chirban, Psychologist in 01720, MA
John T. Chirban
Psychologist, PhD, ThD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I have written several books in psychology and religion and write two weekly blogs for Psychology Today on parenting and spirituality.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
I have written several books in psychology and religion and write two weekly blogs for Psychology Today on parenting and spirituality.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
(857) 203-0549 View (857) 203-0549
Photo of Heather Percy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Heather Percy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I offer diverse services: individual therapy, parent coaching, and consults.
Whether you're an adolescent, a young adult, or an adult grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, and daily stressors, my goal is to be your unwavering support. If you've found that the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, or the relentless strain of daily stressors is affecting your life, then I'm here to offer a helping hand. I'm committed to helping you identify and achieve your goals, guiding you as you navigate and manage these symptoms or stressors. Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where you can regain control over your life, find peace amidst the chaos, and rediscover your sense of balance.
I offer diverse services: individual therapy, parent coaching, and consults.
Whether you're an adolescent, a young adult, or an adult grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, and daily stressors, my goal is to be your unwavering support. If you've found that the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, or the relentless strain of daily stressors is affecting your life, then I'm here to offer a helping hand. I'm committed to helping you identify and achieve your goals, guiding you as you navigate and manage these symptoms or stressors. Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where you can regain control over your life, find peace amidst the chaos, and rediscover your sense of balance.
(978) 300-8447 View (978) 300-8447
Photo of Deborah Stames-Merz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Deborah Stames-Merz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? ​ Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? ​ Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? ​ Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? ​ -PLAY THERAPY ​ Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? ​ -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT ​ Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? ​ Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? ​ Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? ​ Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? ​ Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? ​ -PLAY THERAPY ​ Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? ​ -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT ​ Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? ​ Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
(617) 221-3855 View (617) 221-3855
Photo of Elise Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Elise Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer parent consultation, groups and coaching and work to raise awareness of the PDA profile.
I’ve helped many adults and children seeking support during times of transition, emotional confusion or family stress. Practice members are looking to understand themselves, improve relationships and their parenting. Some struggle to explain themselves clearly and effectively. Many of my clients are seeking a PDA affirming and trained practitioner.
I offer parent consultation, groups and coaching and work to raise awareness of the PDA profile.
I’ve helped many adults and children seeking support during times of transition, emotional confusion or family stress. Practice members are looking to understand themselves, improve relationships and their parenting. Some struggle to explain themselves clearly and effectively. Many of my clients are seeking a PDA affirming and trained practitioner.
(508) 444-8739 View (508) 444-8739
Photo of James D Verdery, Counselor in 01720, MA
James D Verdery
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Help yourself or your child feel more confident in their ability to face life's challenges or help yourself feel more confident in your role as a parent/guardian.
Are you struggling with knowing how to support your child's or your own mental health? Is your child's anxiety stopping them from trying new things? Has your teenager lost interest in things they once enjoyed and is increasingly isolating themselves from friends and family? As a parent/guardian are you struggling with figuring out ways to help manage your child’s behaviors successfully without losing your patience? We try to teach and model ways our children could work through life's challenges, but we don't always have the tools. If you can relate to any of the above, I would love the opportunity to help.
Help yourself or your child feel more confident in their ability to face life's challenges or help yourself feel more confident in your role as a parent/guardian.
Are you struggling with knowing how to support your child's or your own mental health? Is your child's anxiety stopping them from trying new things? Has your teenager lost interest in things they once enjoyed and is increasingly isolating themselves from friends and family? As a parent/guardian are you struggling with figuring out ways to help manage your child’s behaviors successfully without losing your patience? We try to teach and model ways our children could work through life's challenges, but we don't always have the tools. If you can relate to any of the above, I would love the opportunity to help.
(978) 449-4678 View (978) 449-4678
Photo of Jamie Chiarelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Jamie Chiarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
(978) 581-6413 View (978) 581-6413
Photo of Christine Musello, Psy.D., Psychologist in 01720, MA
Christine Musello, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most 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.
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most 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.
(978) 290-4977 View (978) 290-4977
Photo of Dr. Julie Heim Jackson, Psychologist in 01720, MA
Dr. Julie Heim Jackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
It is as though a “What if…” reel is running in your mind. You are so exhausted by the second (third and fourth!) guessing of your choices and your interactions with others. Dealing with your anxiety is taking up so much energy. Sometimes you try to avoid the things or situations that are causing your anxiety. Other times you might check in with a friend, partner or parent asking, “Do you think what I did was okay?” Still other times you imagine worse-case scenarios playing out and strategize how you can prevent them. But the worry comes back.
It is as though a “What if…” reel is running in your mind. You are so exhausted by the second (third and fourth!) guessing of your choices and your interactions with others. Dealing with your anxiety is taking up so much energy. Sometimes you try to avoid the things or situations that are causing your anxiety. Other times you might check in with a friend, partner or parent asking, “Do you think what I did was okay?” Still other times you imagine worse-case scenarios playing out and strategize how you can prevent them. But the worry comes back.
(978) 969-4792 View (978) 969-4792
Photo of Lara Harris-David, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Lara Harris-David
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
If there is one thing we can count on in life is change--expected or unexpected; wanted or unwanted. Perhaps it is a loss, a difficult transition, a new diagnosis, chronic pain, becoming a caregiver, parenting a child with a disability--it could be anything that significantly alters your life plans, your relationships, expectations, sense of self, and day-to-day functioning. People often experience depression, anxiety, relational tension, and feel overwhelmed when faced with a challenging life issue, whether the challenge is short or long-term.
If there is one thing we can count on in life is change--expected or unexpected; wanted or unwanted. Perhaps it is a loss, a difficult transition, a new diagnosis, chronic pain, becoming a caregiver, parenting a child with a disability--it could be anything that significantly alters your life plans, your relationships, expectations, sense of self, and day-to-day functioning. People often experience depression, anxiety, relational tension, and feel overwhelmed when faced with a challenging life issue, whether the challenge is short or long-term.
(978) 903-3715 View (978) 903-3715
Photo of Sheila Marie Tucke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Sheila Marie Tucke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
I have had a private therapy practice in Andover and Westford, Ma. for nearly 30 years. During this time, I have worked with those struggling with a variety of concerns including relationships, parenting, identity, work and careers, depression, anxiety, trauma, school and education, gender, and cultures. Generally, the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work come to my office in some sort of pain or discomfort as they move back and forth between their real and ideal lives.The conversations we have shed light on what is happening and to try to help reduce feelings of pain and distress.
I have had a private therapy practice in Andover and Westford, Ma. for nearly 30 years. During this time, I have worked with those struggling with a variety of concerns including relationships, parenting, identity, work and careers, depression, anxiety, trauma, school and education, gender, and cultures. Generally, the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work come to my office in some sort of pain or discomfort as they move back and forth between their real and ideal lives.The conversations we have shed light on what is happening and to try to help reduce feelings of pain and distress.
(978) 631-4505 View (978) 631-4505
Photo of Stephanie Kriesberg, Psychologist in 01720, MA
Stephanie Kriesberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Are you struggling with a narcissistic parent, spouse, or boss? You'll learn how to handle this painful relationship in the right way for you.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. I’m a psychologist with 30 years’ experience. I help children, teens, and adults tackle anxiety: generalized anxiety (constant worry), panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and social anxiety. You'll learn how anxiety works, and we'll develop the treatment plan that's right for you or your child, based on CBT, in person exposure therapy for OCD, or parent coaching. Clinical Hypnosis is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety, pain, and managing habits such as smoking/vaping and dealing with difficult issues from the past.
Are you struggling with a narcissistic parent, spouse, or boss? You'll learn how to handle this painful relationship in the right way for you.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. I’m a psychologist with 30 years’ experience. I help children, teens, and adults tackle anxiety: generalized anxiety (constant worry), panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and social anxiety. You'll learn how anxiety works, and we'll develop the treatment plan that's right for you or your child, based on CBT, in person exposure therapy for OCD, or parent coaching. Clinical Hypnosis is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety, pain, and managing habits such as smoking/vaping and dealing with difficult issues from the past.
(978) 307-5814 View (978) 307-5814
Photo of Kelli L Kirshtein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Kelli L Kirshtein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to clarify goals, work more effectively with challenging emotions, and, using Mary Oliver's eloquent words, help them answer the question "what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life." I use strength-based approaches to help clients set and achieve goals and boost happiness. Having experience as a school-based therapist and as a parent, I am helpful as a parent coach/mentor/therapist and enjoy working with teens regarding school-related challenges.
I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to clarify goals, work more effectively with challenging emotions, and, using Mary Oliver's eloquent words, help them answer the question "what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life." I use strength-based approaches to help clients set and achieve goals and boost happiness. Having experience as a school-based therapist and as a parent, I am helpful as a parent coach/mentor/therapist and enjoy working with teens regarding school-related challenges.
(857) 763-2316 View (857) 763-2316
Photo of Heather O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Heather O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
(978) 571-5769 View (978) 571-5769
Photo of Katherine Arno, Mental Health Counselor in 01720, MA
Katherine Arno
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a background in education & I'm certified in Triple P (Positive Parenting Program).
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others" and that advice can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever the problem, if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved sleep/anxiety/depression, we can find solutions together.
I have a background in education & I'm certified in Triple P (Positive Parenting Program).
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others" and that advice can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever the problem, if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved sleep/anxiety/depression, we can find solutions together.
(978) 734-4796 View (978) 734-4796
Photo of Rebecca Weksner, Psychologist in 01720, MA
Rebecca Weksner
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C, NCSP
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
I have spent my career working with parents, families, and people across the lifespan coping with life stressors, work-life balance, parenting alignment, and specific mental health conditions including anxiety.
Using an individualized approach that utilizes techniques and interventions from a variety of evidence based practices, I work with each person to capitalize on their strengths and harness their hidden resilience.
I have spent my career working with parents, families, and people across the lifespan coping with life stressors, work-life balance, parenting alignment, and specific mental health conditions including anxiety.
Using an individualized approach that utilizes techniques and interventions from a variety of evidence based practices, I work with each person to capitalize on their strengths and harness their hidden resilience.
(978) 233-4019 View (978) 233-4019
Photo of Zachary Gresser, Counselor in 01720, MA
Zachary Gresser
Counselor, MA, MT-BC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
My practice caters to adults, children and teenagers seeking help for any combination of mental health challenges, including, Attention Deficit Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders including social anxiety and panic disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Problems with Executive Function, Gaming Use Disorder. My treatment emphasizes problem solving, acquisition of coping skills, and identifying strategies to strengthen well-being.
My practice caters to adults, children and teenagers seeking help for any combination of mental health challenges, including, Attention Deficit Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders including social anxiety and panic disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Problems with Executive Function, Gaming Use Disorder. My treatment emphasizes problem solving, acquisition of coping skills, and identifying strategies to strengthen well-being.
(978) 717-0127 View (978) 717-0127
Photo of Heather Veague, Psychologist in 01720, MA
Heather Veague
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Your child is delightful, but has a hard time managing their feelings. They may have had these struggles for some time, or they may have recently developed some troubling behaviors. Maybe your child's teacher has expressed concerns about your child's ability to learn, to connect with their peers, or to focus in the classroom. I have worked with hundreds of children and families who are dealing with either episodic or chronic psychological problems and have helped those families to better understand their child, meet their cognitive and emotional needs, and advocate for their child in the community.
Your child is delightful, but has a hard time managing their feelings. They may have had these struggles for some time, or they may have recently developed some troubling behaviors. Maybe your child's teacher has expressed concerns about your child's ability to learn, to connect with their peers, or to focus in the classroom. I have worked with hundreds of children and families who are dealing with either episodic or chronic psychological problems and have helped those families to better understand their child, meet their cognitive and emotional needs, and advocate for their child in the community.
(508) 545-7491 View (508) 545-7491
Photo of Stephanie Thrower, Psychologist in 01720, MA
Stephanie Thrower
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted of never feeling present because of the never ending to-do list as a working mother? Are you struggling to ask for what you need in with your partner or at work, only to be left feeling resentful and alone? You are used to doing everything well, but now it feels impossible to not drop the ball. Let’s work together to help you gain career clarity, improve communication, decrease self-criticism so you can actually feel content, engaged and connected in your life. Getting more support now can be an important step in the path of a life-changing shift in your relationship with work, perfectionism & self-compassion.
Are you exhausted of never feeling present because of the never ending to-do list as a working mother? Are you struggling to ask for what you need in with your partner or at work, only to be left feeling resentful and alone? You are used to doing everything well, but now it feels impossible to not drop the ball. Let’s work together to help you gain career clarity, improve communication, decrease self-criticism so you can actually feel content, engaged and connected in your life. Getting more support now can be an important step in the path of a life-changing shift in your relationship with work, perfectionism & self-compassion.
(339) 231-8301 View (339) 231-8301
Photo of Shanna R Kraai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01720, MA
Shanna R Kraai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
I received my Masters of Social Work from the Graduate School of Social Work at the University of Denver with a clinical specialization in families, high-risk youth, and trauma. I have over 15 years of experience as a social worker, with experience in the areas of research, child welfare, juvenile justice, domestic and international school systems, and private practice therapy and assessment. I am passionate about mental health and aspire to create a climate of empathy, creativity, and understanding with families. I am a skilled clinician who strives to build resilience and adaptability.
I received my Masters of Social Work from the Graduate School of Social Work at the University of Denver with a clinical specialization in families, high-risk youth, and trauma. I have over 15 years of experience as a social worker, with experience in the areas of research, child welfare, juvenile justice, domestic and international school systems, and private practice therapy and assessment. I am passionate about mental health and aspire to create a climate of empathy, creativity, and understanding with families. I am a skilled clinician who strives to build resilience and adaptability.
(978) 295-2967 View (978) 295-2967
Parenting Therapists

What does therapy for parenting look like?

Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.

When should a parent seek therapy?

When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.

How long does therapy take for parenting problems?

Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?

Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.