There are things that used to be true for me. They no longer are. These writings are meant to hold me close to authenticity. For me. For my clients. Or for any readers who need permission and courage to live as themselves. A long difficult struggle brought me to the things I know to be true of me now. May all of us continue to "become who we are" (Nietzche).
Who I Am
Qualifications
I hold a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling granted in January 2010 by the University of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont. In addition to my Master’s degree, I hold a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor license (068.0093089) issued by the state of Vermont. I have been practicing (post-masters) in the counseling field for 12 years.
In 2012, I received intensive four-month training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) from Behavioral Tech. I have also completed the practitioner training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) from EMDR institute. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor certified by the NBCC.
Counseling Background
In my private practice, I serve older teen and adult individuals (ages 16+), often struggling with anxiety and depression and intense emotions. Many of my clients are in times of transition and are looking for greater effectiveness and control within their own lives and relationships. I have worked extensively with clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) as well as with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), employing DBT skills (Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness) to help them to create more meaningful, manageable lives.
During individual sessions, my clients and I focus on understanding their values and looking for meaningful pursuits and greater agency. Often using DBT skills, my clients and I work together to find ways to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and lives. In all of my counseling practice, there is an undercurrent of mindfulness. By this I mean that effective change starts with awareness and acceptance of the current circumstances in our lives and emotions. I love working together with clients to help them understand and manage these deep emotions--and to find the courage to face what is ahead and the ability to manage their own lives.
I am glad to discuss my own or any other counseling theories or perspectives with you. I comply with the American Counseling Association Code of Ethics for Professional Counselors and can provide you with a copy of the Cody of Ethics for Professional Counselors upon request.
Session Fees and Length of Service
All sessions are 50 minutes. My fee for service is $150 per 50 minute “therapeutic hour” for individuals. I accept cash, check, credit or debit card. I am not in network with insurance panels. I issue “Superbills” at the end of each month for clients to submit to insurance for reimbursement. I have further explanation of this process on my “Payment & Insurance Information” form and can assist, if necessary. Please ask me if you have any questions.