Counseling with DJ

My approach to all relationships is based on a combination of Pragmatic Experiential Therapy for Couples and Interpersonal Neurobiology, both of which rely heavily upon the understanding and influence of decades of research into intimate and attachment relationships, habit change, and interpersonal influence. Foundational to my approach is an understanding that most of us don’t naturally have the skills and abilities associated with healthy, successful relationships. The good news, however, is the skills and abilities needed for healthy relationships can be learned and acquired with dedicated work.

The change process can take many forms, just like relationships, which means I’m happy to work with all parties or just one person who desires change in their relationship(s).

I work with various relationship models, including couples, polyamorous relationships, open/ENM relationships, and am sex-positive and kink-affirming.

It Only Takes One Person to Want Change

Contrary to what you may think, the research strongly suggests that one committed person has a high degree of influence on their partner and their relationship. So if your partner(s) is reluctant or unwilling, we may still be able to support positive change. Some people may want heal from relationship pain and to understand their patterns if they’ve struggled to find lasting love. Let’s talk and see what we might be able to do together to help you to reach your goals.

My approach to starting therapy with teens is best summed up by the wise words of a former colleague: “parents retain us, teens hire us.” If you’re a teen considering therapy, know this: finding the right fit in your therapist is the biggest predictor of success in counseling. So that’s our first and only goal with session one: you’re the boss, and you decide whether or not to hire me. If I’m not the right person for you, just let me know - simple as that.

My work with teenagers is broad, covering common concerns like:

• Anxiety and Depression

• ADHD

• Sexuality & Gender Identity Concerns

• Behavioral Difficulties

• Relationship Concerns

• Self-esteem Issues

• Life Changes/Transitions

• Divorce Adjustment*

For those with teens they suspect may not be open to therapy, check out my article on How to Help Teens Get Into Therapy XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.

Lastly, there are a few areas I do not work with and want to save you time of trying to get in touch. These include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders (including High Functioning, formerly known as Asperger’s Disorder)

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

• Some Court-Mandated Treatment

*In the event of divorce, separation, or custody concerns, both custodial parents will be required to sign a Consent to Child & Adolescent Therapy Agreement prior to treatment onset. If you have concerns, please let me know when you make contact for scheduling.

Parenting culture has changed dramatically over the last 50 years or so, and with it have come a lot of changes in terms of what “good parenting” even means. Parenting today can feel more like a minefield than anything else, and often I hear a version of “okay, just tell me how to NOT mess up my kids.” From blogs and magazines to social media influencers and pop-psychology, there is no shortage of ways to feel like you’re doing it wrong. But what is right? No approach or style fits every family, let alone every child within a family.

For nearly two decades, my work has integrated relationship change models and interpersonal skills in my work with parents, teens, and children. I’ve found a special interest in supporting parents and their relationships with their teens (hint: it’s going to be rocky, but it doesn’t have to be miserable) in managing both the external and internal expectations and demands of raising kids.

I’m here to help with navigating the tween and teen years, from tackling common challenges like school, emerging sexuality and peer relationships, managing boundaries and allowing teens to fail in ways that support their growth. In all of this, the most important and influential tool you have - your relationship - will be at the center of our approach.

Curious if might be able to help? Contact me below for a 15-minute “meet and greet” session. I look forward to speaking with you!

I am a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, a sex-positive and affirming clinician who believes that not talking about sex and sexuality can leave out some of the most important parts of our relational and individual worlds. This is a welcoming and judgment free zone for any and all sexual concerns.