Conditions Treated/Specialties:
Below is a list of conditions treated. Click on underlined text to learn more about my specialties or scroll down.
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Asperger's/Autism
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Chronic Illness
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Codependency
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Depression
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Divorce
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Family Conflict
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Life Coaching
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Life Transitions
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Obesity
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Peer Relationships
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Relationship Issues
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Self Esteem
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Spirituality
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Stress
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Weight Loss
Specialties:
Anxiety/Panic Disorders
Anxiety is a perceived fear about a future that has not yet happened. It presents itself as worry and panic and can cause physiological changes in the body, such as pounding heart, sweating, racing thoughts, and irritability. Experiencing occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. However, people with anxiety disorders frequently have intense, excessive, and persistent debilitating worry and agitation about everyday situations.
Anxiety disorders often involve repeated episodes of sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear or terror that reach a peak within minutes (panic attacks). These feelings of anxiety and panic interfere with daily activities, are difficult to control, are out of proportion to the actual danger, and can last a long time. You may notice that you avoid places or situations to prevent these feelings.
Anxiety can actually be a good thing, however. When we learn how to work with it, rather than fighting it, we may find that symptoms begin to go away on their own. My approach to treating anxiety is to utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to examine anxious thoughts, figure out ways to readjust our thinking, and develop better coping skills. Together we can work on how to manage this feeling so that you can take back control of your life. For more information on Anxiety, Click Here.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a therapy that has been shown to be effective in over 2,000 research studies. It is present-oriented therapy that helps individuals identify goals that are most important to them and overcome obstacles that get in the way.
CBT is based on the cognitive model: If a person can change the way they think, they can begin to change the way they feel, and ultimately change their behavior.
One important part of CBT is helping patients figure out what they most want from life and how to move toward achieving their vision. They learn skills to modify thinking and behavior to achieve lasting improvement in mood and functioning and instill a sense of well-being. Depending on your needs, I integrate CBT into all my sessions or use it as a standalone approach. I am listed as part of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy’s referral Therapist network. For more information on CBT, Click Here.
Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics (CBIT)
CBIT is a powerful technique that has been demonstrated to reduce tic severity. CBIT is a non-drug treatment consisting of three important components:
· Training the patient to be more aware of tics.
· Training patients to engage in competing behavior when they feel the urge to tic.
· Making changes to day-to-day activities in ways that can be helpful in reducing tics.
CBIT is a highly structured therapy that typically takes place with a therapist on a weekly basis. The standard treatment is 8 sessions over 10 weeks, but can be longer or shorter depending on the patient’s needs. You will be asked to purchase a workbook to help guide us through this process. The first step in CBIT is to teach the patient to become more aware of their tics and the urge to tic. Next, the patient is taught to perform a specific behavior that makes the tic more difficult to do, as soon as the tic or urge appears. The final step of CBIT, the functional intervention (FI), is based on the fact that certain situations or reactions to tics can make them worse than they might otherwise be. The goal of FI is to identify these situations and have the patient and family attempt to change them so the tics aren’t made worse unnecessarily. To learn more about this therapy, click here or please visit the Tourette Association of America.
PLEASE NOTE: If you haven't been formally diagnosed with a "tic disorder," prior to seeing me for this service, it is recommended that you contact a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders to evaluate your symptoms. There are numerous reasons why people can have tics, and it is recommended that you rule out other conditions before seeking to correct them with behavioral therapy. Also please note that for this specific modality I only work with adults aged 18 and over. We also may need to integrate the help of family members or friends as part of the treatment approach.
LGBTQ+ Concerns
Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community can come with incredible strength, creativity, and resilience—but it can also come with challenges that are often overlooked or misunderstood. Even though acceptance has grown in many spaces, discrimination, judgment, and pressure to conform still show up in everyday life—and that can take a real toll on mental health.
Whether you’re navigating coming out, exploring your gender or sexual identity, dealing with family rejection, deciding whether to be in a non-monogamous relationship, raising kids, or just trying to age with dignity in a world that doesn’t always get it—you’re not alone. These experiences can bring up stress, anxiety, depression, or feelings of isolation. But you don’t have to carry that weight by yourself.
Therapy is a place where you can talk openly about things like sex, relationships, identity, and health—including making informed sexual decisions, managing shame, and exploring options like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for HIV prevention—without fear of judgment.
You deserve care that affirms who you are, respects where you come from, and supports where you want to go. Together, we can sort through what’s going on in your life and find ways to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and aligned with your values.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is more than just liking things neat and organized. It’s a serious and often misunderstood condition that can be incredibly disruptive to your daily life. For many people, OCD can interfere with work, relationships, and everyday routines—and it’s not something you can just “turn off.”
OCD affects people of all ages and walks of life. It often shows up as unwanted, intrusive thoughts (called obsessions) that can feel scary, upsetting, or out of your control. People can have unwanted sexual thoughts, thoughts of harming others, fears about relationships, and contamination, to name a few. To cope, you might feel driven to do certain behaviors or rituals (compulsions) in an effort to quiet those thoughts. Unfortunately, this creates a cycle that can leave you feeling exhausted, isolated, and overwhelmed.
OCD doesn’t always look the same. It can also show up in related ways, such as:
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Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) – Obsessive thoughts about perceived flaws in appearance
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Skin Picking (Excoriation Disorder) – Repeated picking at the skin, often causing injury
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Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania) – Compulsive pulling out of hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other areas
My approach to treating OCD is rooted in the evidence-based methods of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP is considered the gold standard for OCD treatment. Together, these approaches help you face fears in a safe, supportive way—so you can break free from the cycle of obsessions and compulsions. I am a part a part of the International OCD Foundation's Therapist Network and have been trained in ERP through the organization. To find out more about OCD, Click here.
Side Note: OCD and PTSD (TRAUMA)
About 19% of people with OCD also have a history of trauma. The research in this area is still evolving, and the truth is we don't have the best methods for treating both. Some of the strategies that are highly effective for OCD might not be appropriate for someone actively struggling with PTSD, and vice versa.
Currently, Prolonged Exposure (PE) is considered the gold standard for treating PTSD. That said, some individuals don't respond well to that. Others respond well to approaches like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or IFS (Internal Family Systems). If you’re dealing with both OCD and trauma, we’ll work together to determine the best path forward—one that’s safe, effective, and tailored to your unique needs. If you'd like to learn more about this comorbitiy, please CLICK HERE.
PLEASE NOTE: Some treatment for OCD will be unconventional. In some cases, I may require house visits and family participation, but be assured that all treatment related to OCD is always in the interest of helping you manage unwanted thoughts and rituals.
Body Dysmorphia/Muscle Dysmorphia (aka “Bigorexia”)
Body Dysmorphia is more than just being unhappy with your body. It involves an obsessive focus on a perceived flaw in appearance, such as having a nose that is too big, not being thin enough, or, in the case of Bigorexia, not feeling muscular enough (or feeling that a part of your body is not muscular enough). These perceived flaws in appearance often lead people to frequently examine themselves, compare themselves to others, and avoid social events, people, or places. This condition may also lead to behavior that can become disruptive to a person’s life, such as working out obsessively or going through unnecessary cosmetic procedures. Individuals with this condition often feel isolated, lonely, and overwhelmed by their feelings and behavior. If you are struggling with this, know that you are not alone. My treatment approach involves a combination of ERP and CBT targeted specifically for this disorder. To find out more about Body Dysmorphia, Click Here.
Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP)
ERP is a modality that was developed to help people confront their fears, thoughts, and OCD rituals. When people are fearful of something, they tend to avoid the feared objects, activities or situations. Although this avoidance might help reduce feelings of fear and intrusive thoughts in the short term, over the long term it can make the fear become worse. In such situations, I recommend a program of exposure therapy to help break the pattern of avoidance and fear. In this form of therapy, we create a safe environment in which you learn to confront the things you fear and avoid. The exposure to feared objects, activities or situations in a safe environment helps reduce fear and decrease avoidance. Exposure therapy has been scientifically demonstrated to be a helpful treatment or treatment component for a range of problems, including:
· Phobias
· Panic Disorder
· Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
· Body/Muscle Dysmorphia
· Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
· Generalized Anxiety Disorder
People can have mixed feelings exposure therapy because it can sometimes be seen as too invasive. My approach, however, is to always begin by making you comfortable and providing further education. For OCD you will be asked to get a workbook for this type of therapy to help guide the process. Exposure therapy at its core is about learning to tolerate uncertainty. In my experience, people ultimately feel empowered when they are finally able to confront the objects or situations that have long held them back and are able to see that they can handle the uncertainty. I am a certified therapist in ERP and would be happy to talk to you more about this form of therapy. To learn more about Exposure Therapy, Click Here.
Trauma
Trauma isn't just about what happened—it’s also about how your mind and body responded to it. Trauma can result from any deeply distressing or life-threatening experience, and its impact can show up in all areas of your life.
People who have experienced trauma may struggle with overwhelming emotions like anxiety, sadness, anger, guilt, or shame. Some feel numb or disconnected, while others experience intense flashbacks, nightmares, or trouble sleeping. It’s also common to notice difficulties in relationships, low self-worth, or physical symptoms like chronic pain or tension.
In the days or weeks after a traumatic event, it’s normal to feel shocked, confused, or even in denial. Sometimes those feelings fade on their own—but if the emotional pain continues or gets worse over time, it may be a sign that support is needed.
Healing from trauma doesn’t mean forgetting what happened. It means finding new ways to relate to the experience so it doesn’t hold as much power over your present life.
In our work together, we’ll gently revisit your story in a safe, supportive space—and sometimes, we don’t have to discuss the trauma at all. The goal is to shift your beliefs and responses to the trauma, helping you reclaim your sense of safety, identity, and self-worth.
Everyone’s healing journey is different. Depending on your needs, we may draw from approaches like talk therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, or other evidence-based practices that support your goals and emotional well-being.
Side Note: If you have trauma and a form of OCD, Please see the above section under - OCD.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. This therapy focuses on a distressing life event while you simultaneously move your eyes in a specific way (known as bilateral stimulation). This can result in a reduction of the vividness and feelings associated with the painful memories. Repeated studies show that using EMDR therapy is an effective approach to treating trauma, anxiety, and a range of other disorders. Check out my profile on EMDRIA. To learn more about EMDR, please Click Here.
PLEASE NOTE: EMDR is a nontraditional approach that can be used as a standalone therapy or in combination with other methods. I offer a thorough consultation to determine whether this modality is a good fit before we begin. If you're interested in learning more or exploring whether EMDR is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Creative/Performing Arts/Entertainment Industry Professionals
Actors, dancers, musicians, painters, writers, TV personalities, and others involved in the creative arts are often vulnerable to a variety of challenges that are unique to those who choose to make their living in these fields. These careers can come with unpredictability and high levels of stress. Unlike many other professions, there is often no clear-cut path to professional success or advancement. Studies suggest that creative individuals face high rates of depression and anxiety because of the nature of their careers. From creative blocks and performance anxiety to managing professional success and occupational stress, the highs and lows can be daunting, but you need not do it alone. Together we can get to the underlying root of all these concerns and get you back on track. Need more information or resources? Check out Behind the Scenes or the Entertainment Community Fund.
Men's Issues
Research has taught us that men don’t often seek out therapy on their own. There are beliefs of “therapy is for the weak” and “l can handle my problems on my own” that keep men from seeking help. Often men go to therapy when something or someone has prompted them and things in their life have gotten worse. (If you’re reading this and are seeking out therapy on your own, give yourself a pat on the back! This can be a good place to start the process.)
Men have a complexity of issues that often remain unaddressed. While it may not be commonly discussed, men suffer from issues that can lead them to feeling angry, discontent, and lonely, to name a few. The most common issues men come to see me for are anger management, sexual performance difficulties, marital and extramarital concerns, life changes, feelings of inadequacy as a provider, body image perceptions, and work-related situations. Having a non-judgmental environment with which to examine these issues can lead to a greater sense of self-empowerment. If you’re ready to come to therapy or are on the fence about whether you need therapy, feel free to give me a call and we can discuss your concerns.
Anger Management
Anger can be thought of as a secondary emotion or a mask we put on to give ourselves the illusion that we are in control of a situation. Getting angry at someone, lashing out at individuals (or other behavioral issues), or keeping our frustration built up inside of us are symptoms of something deeper inside of us that we may not fully realize. Oftentimes, beneath the mask of anger is fear, sadness, disappointment, and an array of other emotions that we never learned to handle or express appropriately. We manifest these feelings as anger to try and take back control of the situation, but this frequently leads to negative consequences. If you find yourself getting angry all the time or those around you are starting to point out your anger, it might be time to examine this emotion on a deeper level. My approach to addressing anger is to explore the root causes of what makes us angry and look for healthier ways to deal with what lies beneath.
PLEASE NOTE: I cannot see people who are currently involved in legal disputes as a result of their anger. If you currently have a restraining order against you, are in the middle of a custody dispute, have pending charges against you, or you are anticipating being involved in court proceedings, my services will not be appropriate for you at this time. My services are not considered a substitute for traditional anger management courses that will suffice for court mandates. When your legal issues are resolved, you may contact me then.
Sex Addiction/ Pornography Addiction
While “sex addiction” is a term many people use, it’s important to know that it is not currently classified as an official mental health diagnosis. That said, if you're struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors or compulsive pornography use, the distress it causes is very real—and you’re not alone.
Compulsive sexual behavior often stems from an urge to relieve anxiety or escape difficult emotions. It can become a repetitive cycle that feels impossible to break. A history of trauma, OCD, anxiety, and other substance use disorders may be present. Acting on these urges can sometimes lead to serious consequences: lying, infidelity, broken trust, guilt, shame, and emotional pain. Many people seek therapy when these behaviors begin to affect their relationships, work, or sense of self-worth.
I work with individuals who are ready to explore the underlying causes behind their relationship to sex, porn, and intimacy. Together, we focus on building a healthier, more conscious connection to your sexuality—one that aligns with your values and leads to a more meaningful life. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to know when something feels off. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, therapy can be a powerful space for change. Please check out Sex Addicts Anonymous for more information.
PLEASE NOTE: I do not work with Sex Offenders or individuals who are facing legal consequences.
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based, evidence-supported approach that helps individuals make space for difficult thoughts and emotions instead of avoiding, fighting, or feeling ashamed of them. Rather than trying to eliminate distress, ACT teaches psychological flexibility—the ability to stay present, adapt to life’s challenges, and take meaningful action aligned with one’s core values. Through self-acceptance, compassion, and committed action, clients are empowered to build a more fulfilling, values-driven life, even in the presence of discomfort. ACT is widely used to treat a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and more. I incorporate ACT principles into nearly every session with my patients. If you would like more information about ACT, please Click Here