Couples Counseling Therapists in Burlington, VT

My clinical work has consisted of treating a variety of clients with different backgrounds and concerns. I am particularly interested and experienced in treating interpersonal relationship problems, self-esteem concerns, family of origin issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, codependency and LGBTQ issues. I enjoy facilitating individual and couples therapy with adults. As a compassionate, yet assertive clinician, I work with clients to meet self-identified goals. I view myself more as a guide and mentor than expert. My clients have described me as "down to earth" and "personable."

Welcome! People come to therapy for many different reasons. As your counselor, I offer a compassionate, safe, and supportive place in which to explore your concerns. I work collaboratively with curiosity and non-judgment as we create a path toward the changes you wish to make. I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years in a variety of capacities including school settings. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples . At the core of my work is an unconditional positive regard for each of my clients. I am honored to hear your life story and accompany you on this journey.

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

Being a person in 2023 is hard. Whether you're experiencing depression or anxiety, understanding new identities, working towards building healthy relationships, or simply trying to understand your own goals better, it can feel overwhelming. I see therapy as a means of helping you understand how you work, supporting you in identifying strategies for getting your needs met, and building motivation to try new things. I believe in a collaborative approach and work to integrate feedback to co-create a therapy relationship where you feel safe and seen.

There comes a time in everyone’s life when extra support is necessary to move through hardship. If you have found yourself feeling stuck or afraid, struggling with relationships or your relationship to yourself, I can help.

I work with adults (18+), providing support and guidance for those navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, depression, life transitions, and personal growth. I aim to create a space of comfort and safety where one can find the courage to look compassionately within.

Developing a strong therapeutic relationship continues to prove to be the most effective factor in creating change in therapy. Through the therapeutic relationship individuals and families create the opportunity to develop a greater level of understanding and acceptance of themselves and others. They then can develop new opportunities for more positive and fulfilling meaning in their lives.

Hi! I'm Bernadette and I am a licensed clinical social worker and I received my MSW from Columbia University. I use a variety of clinical modalities rooted in CBT, EMDR, motivational interviewing and problem solving therapy. I have experience in working with issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, loss and grief, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, poverty, sexuality and gender, and stress management. My approach to therapy is guided by the firm belief that the strength of the therapist-client relationship is the most important element of successful treatment.

If you are an individual that is motivated, desiring change and healing, or just seeking a good mental health checkup knowing you are on the path you embrace, you will find a good fit with me. My style is compassionate but direct. Do you appreciate openness, straightforward communication, thoughtful questions, humor, and building a strong working relationship ? I will be supportive and challenge you to be the best you. I will offer a deep understanding with human life struggles especially trauma, grief, and tragedy. Every part of self is important: emotional, intellectual, psychological and spiritual. A safe space is created.