I work in a private practice setting, offering psychotherapy services for a wide variety of issues that affect individuals and the entire family. I also provide psychological testing and assessment services in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the many factors that contribute to a client's presenting problem. In some instances, hidden issues may be uncovered; in other cases, mis-diagnoses can be identified and corrected.

ASSESSMENT & TREATMENT

• Underachievement
• Teen depression & anxiety
• ADHD/ADD
• Oppositional-Defiant Disorder & Disruptive behavior
• Bed-wetting
• Shyness & Social anxiety
• Peer rejection & bullying
• Temper tantrums
• Sleep problems
• Divorce & Step-family adjustments
• Parental Discord & Communication

PARENT TRAINING I offer Parent Training that includes an easy-to-learn approach to eliminating undesirable behavior that can be mastered within a few weeks. I help parents learn to set firm limits in calm, non-reactive ways. Parents who are frustrated, feeling helpless, over-reacting with anger, and unable to control children's behaviors are able to find quick relief with the methods that I teach. Parents are taught to identify the "buttons" that their kids push, so they can have better control of their reactions, freeing them from using shame and criticism on themselves or their children.

ADHD/ADD/Disruptive Behaviors: When treating children with ADHD, I emphasize that their diagnosis does not mean that they are "defective" or "bad". Children with these difficulties are often shamed for their behaviors, making it more difficult for them to face the problem honestly. While children with ADHD do not have control over many of their actions, I reframe their “problem” as a challenge-- they have to work harder than other children, but it’s not their fault that they have this difficulty. I help these clients accept the challenge and move out of a shame-oriented or denial mindset. Kids with ADHD learn skills that help them to think before they act; delay impulses; identify and express feelings with words; develop more awareness of the impact of their behavior on others; and become more attuned to subtle social cues.

TEEN DEPRESSION: Nearly one in 10 American teenagers experienced major depression last year, according to government statistics. Signs of depression can present in many forms, including alcohol/drug use, cigarette smoking, rebelliousness, isolation and lack of interest in favorite activities. A good rapport and a confidential setting are essential when working with teen clients. I assist depressed teens in identifying the feelings behind their depression-- sadness, hurt, anger and disappointment. They also learn how to verbalize these feelings to their parents in an appropriate manner. And I help depressed teens create a realistic plan for getting their social and emotional needs met. Parents, in turn, are taught how to tolerate their teen’s feelings and thoughts. I also assist them in setting kind, but firm boundaries with their teens. And finally, I normalize the resentment, anger and despair that parents often feel during the teen years, reminding them that they are not alone in this difficult experience.

SCHOOL/EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

• Pre-School Adjustment Evaluations
• School Readiness Assessment
• School observations and consultations