Depression and Anxiety

Overwhelmed. Depleted. Agitated. Irritable. Restless. Wary. Withdrawn.

Depression & anxiety often accompany transitions, such as starting college, becoming a parent, moving overseas, caregiving for a loved one, or having a son or daughter leave for college. There are different types of depression, based on early relationships with caregivers, longstanding vulnerabilities, and present losses or stresses.

Experiencing Psychosis

I have a longstanding interest in how we humans perceive our world, make inferences, and experience ourselves and others. This is a complicated process, involving multiple neural networks. Sometimes, the process can go awry, resulting in unusual sensations, idiosyncratic thoughts, or a change in how one experiences the social world. This shift is known as psychosis. Specific symptoms vary widely from person to person and over time; they may or may not cause distress or difficulties functioning.

Psychosis can manifest in the context of trauma, relationship stress, acute mania or depression, substance abuse, neurological conditions, or schizophrenia.

Clients have often heard the term “psychosis” but do not know how it relates to what they experience. Fear, shame, misinformation, or a “I’ll figure this out on my own” attitude can delay consultation with a professional. Yet, there can be relief in simply sharing. Let’s explore together and see what is or is not needed.

I have training & experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) for psychosis. As clinically indicated, I interweave psychodynamic approaches to collaboratively explore underlying conflicts or meaning in the experiences.

Spirituality & Faith

If you desire, I have experience incorporating spirituality into therapy. This can include exploring existential questions, reflecting upon internal or external conflicts, sharing spiritual experiences, or discussing your values in relation to your faith. Like any relationship, your relationship with God can vary over time with regard to closeness vs distance. We can discuss and practice brief meditations, prayer, or journaling.

Collaborative Psychological Assessment

Do you want to learn more about your self and the nature of your difficulties? With your current treaters’ input, we can develop questions to explore via psychological assessment. This can be particularly helpful for clients new to treatment or for clients feelings stuck. Findings that emerge via collaborative discussions often help clients feel understood, empowered, and clear about what they need.

Other Areas of Focus

  • Unipolar & Bipolar Depression

  • Anxiety Disorders, including Health Anxiety & Obsessive Compulsive Disorders

  • Emerging Adults

  • Autism-spectrum Disorders

  • Suicidality

  • Substance Abuse & Addiction

  • Navigating Grief and Life Transitions

  • Loneliness

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Somatic Symptom Disorder

  • Personality Disorders, including Borderline, Narcissistic, Schizotypal, Avoidant,& Obsessive Compulsive

  • Marital Stress & Conflict