"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out."  - Robert Collier

 

Being a native New Yorker who has found my adoptive home in Maine, some might say that I'm direct, to the point and get things done. This down-to-earth approach, along with a strong sense of empathy, will allow us to work toward your goals of feeling happier, healthier and more empowered. 

I'm trained in Motivational Interviewing and other Cognitive Behavioral techniques. My approach is a blend of psychotherapy and coaching, providing education and techniques that foster compassion and forgiveness towards self and others. I have experience working in both abstinence-based and harm reduction modalities, specializing in dual diagnosis and cross-addictions. 

individual therapy

The most important aspect of your counseling journey is the therapeutic alliance you establish with your counselor.  I recommend consultations with a few providers. I provide our initial consultation free of charge and if you decide it’s not a fit, I offer a list of other providers.  If we move forward, we will set a plan that feels mutually agreeable and I usually advise weekly (in some cases 2x weekly) for the first 6-8 weeks, at which time we will revisit goals and discuss your progress. During sessions, I will make suggestions that might include 12-step support groups, writing and reading assignments, mindfulness practices and group therapy.  While I don’t provide traditional couples or family therapy, if clients are willing, I always invite partners, parents or other family members into your sessions periodically and make referrals as needed.

clinical supervision

I am a certified clinical supervisor and offer individual and group supervision, using many of the same skills and techniques I use with my clients. 

group therapy

I am connected to various gender specific and co-ed intimacy therapy groups, which can be paramount to the healing and recovery process and are an excellent way to enhance the clinical process made in individual therapy. 

adolescents

Working with teens has its own unique set of challenges which I find rewarding . I know, from personal experience, that many parents and providers do their best to understand and help but their “help” can sometimes be misplaced leaving kids feeling less understood and isolated.  I find deep listening, empathy, curiosity, humor and a nuanced question-asking skillset are paramount to establishing a clinical alliance. My goal is to provide a safe environment that will foster vulnerability, honesty and a sense of hope.  I often employ music therapy, share books or watch YouTube clips if the client needs a break from talk therapy.  Sometimes the teen’s support network is included in the sessions - school counselor, friends and family members are welcome to attend if we agree it would be helpful to their recovery.

Coaching

Coaching can be more directive and solution-focused than therapy and is offered for a variety of issues, including 12-step work for clients and family members, vocational and educational options and connections to outside specialists. I also bring clients to 12-step meetings when fear or other obstacles are preventing clients from connecting.

referrals

I refer clients to various services such as family and couples therapy, psychiatric and medication management, peer mentors, inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment, sober housing and extended care, vocational and educational support.

FINANCe Questions

I accept the following insurance plans: BlueCross & BlueShield, Anthem, Community Health Options, Beacon Health, Maine Care, Magellan Behavioral Health and out of network options. 

All major credit cards accepted, Venmo, Paypal, Cash and Check