Couples Counseling Therapists in Burlington, VT

The goal of my practice is to help reduce suffering and to increase capacity for joy, flexibility, and life fulfillment. I individualize my approach to your needs using a mix of different psychological approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, narrative and psychodynamic. I am a Vermont licensed doctoral-level psychologist who trained in health psychology at the Minneapolis VA Hospital, and engaged in postdoctoral study in behavioral medicine at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. I worked for many years at the Hazelden Center, a nationally-recognized leader in addiction treatment, and gained additional experience working with adolescents as a high school counselor and wellness teacher.

Do you have the desire to take back control over your life, your dreams, your reality? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the external world while feeling completely lost in your own internal world? Do you struggle with seeing the bigger picture or purpose? Are you feeling bummed or regretful with where you're at in your life and desire a more fulfilling, aligned, impactful life? Are you experiencing a transition in your life or identity and want support in feeling more grounded and confident in this change? Does your life path look different than the societally expected norm?

For more information, you can access my professional website by clicking on the "website" button below my photo on the left. In summary, I am a licensed psychologist-doctorate who has been providing psychological services to adults and older adults since 1992. Conditions treated include anxiety, depression, anger management, grief/bereavement, life transition difficulties, relationship , and physical health problems. Psychological testing services (personality or cognitive/capacity testing) are offered as well. Providing services for all genders, faiths, and orientations.

We are all worthy of love and belonging. It is a fundamental part of the human experience. We all strive to find meaning, purpose, connection, safety, and healing within all domains of our lives. I am enthusiastic about aiding people in their quest to deepen self-understanding, self-compassion, and personal growth. Together we will create a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, respect, authenticity, curiosity, and collaboration. This allows us to address the issues you are facing in a warm empathic space. It helps us to develop a greater awareness of self and others; cultivating more fulfilling interpersonal relationships.

Derek works with clients on issues related to low self-esteem, relationship problems, social anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and challenges adjusting to life's changes. Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, Derek aims to help people improve quality of life by building awareness and efficacy regarding patterns that influence thoughts, feelings, and actions. If you're feeling stuck or in need of help, and you think Derek might be a good fit for you, please feel free to reach out via phone or email. In-person as well as telehealth appointments offered. Current wait list is roughly 3-4 months unfortunately.

Without our consent, and oftentimes without our knowledge, we are bombarded with negative messages that become woven into our personal story. When the story that's been written for us doesn’t align with how we want to be seen, chronic feelings of shame, anxiety, and hopelessness can surface. My approach to counseling is grounded in narrative and psychodynamic therapy. Through the process of discovering your own unique values, strengths, and resources in a trusting relationship with someone who listens to your story with care and genuine curiosity, you will begin to see your innate capacity for growth as you define it.

Sometimes, we find ourselves in repetitive patterns that can betray our deepest wishes for a fulfilling life. Perhaps you have developed ways of coping that were once effective but are less helpful than they were in the past. Natural life transitions themselves, even the joyful ones, can be full of complicated feelings like loss, grief, and resentment. Despite wanting a meaningful relationship with others, you may feel inhibited and alone. We can also just feel ‘off’ yet remain unsure why or what could be the cause. Exploring our unconscious minds and residues can illuminate great depths

It may be challenging to seek help with life's stressors. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, possessing numerous years of multi-discipline counseling experience, my desire is to facilitate client's healing through the development of a collaborative therapeutic relationship . In a warm and supportive environment you'll feel comfortable to share your story and move forward by reaching your personal goals and individual potential.

A medical diagnoses or loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. I specialize in clients and their families navigating medical illnesses, end-of-life, or grief. I incorporate spirituality when appropriate. I also work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, societal oppression, trauma, and women’s issues. My goal is to help clients traverse challenges, discover healthy solutions, develop resilience, build coping skills, and experience inner peace. I collaborate with individuals, couples , and families to help them reach their full potential. Please email me detailing your counseling needs.