Could my family benefit from counseling? 

Across the years I have worked with numerous families with issues ranging from a high degree of conflict and environmental stress, to those simply seeking to find better tools to communicate. I also see teens and adolescents who are acting out, or experiencing emotional distress. 

Families with adolescents and children in particular seem to benefit from Family Counseling. The goal of this therapy is really developing better lines of clarity about what we say and what we communicate to each other.

Numerous studies show that a secure and safe family environment is the largest predictive factor in assessing for chronic mental health issues, addiction, and relationship stress in the future. 

My belief is that every person in the family both contributes to the challenges and the solutions. Through coaching and interpersonal counseling we establish better ways of working through these issues and finding the most effective way to support each other through life. Often parents bring in their children, who see me one-on-one, though it is also highly desirable to participate in a total way, working with each person, and sometimes all together. 

Many teens are hesitant to participate in one on one counseling but, research shows, WILL attend family or group therapy. This is a fantastic step in growing closer as a family. 

What issues do we work on?

• Blended families learning to work together to communicate better, find common ground, and explore differences.
• Children and families coping with Reactive Attachment Disorder and its impact on every day life. 
• Behavioral Disturbances such as acting out at school or in family situations; integrating skillful strategies for managing difficult emotions. 
• Sexuality and Gender questions
• Mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, or overwhelming emotions; processing significant challenges to moods.
• Family Conflict and re-opening lines of communication between parents and children. 
• Teenage struggles
• Difficulty with or between adult children
• Family, school, and friendships issuses
• Adoption and reintegration
• Problem behaviors and emotional hardship
• Divorce and other life transitions
• Trauma and grief
• Defiance and power struggles