WHAT WE TREAT

DEPRESSION

Depression can affect your mood, thoughts, and behavior. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, chemical imbalances in the brain, life events, and environmental factors. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include feelings of worthlessness, fatigue, difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, and changes in appetite. Depression can significantly impact your quality of life and may lead to feelings of isolation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is commonly used to treat depression. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to your symptoms. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is another type of therapy that is often used to treat depression. IPT focuses on improving relationships and social support to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Other types of therapy, such as psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, may also be used. The goal of psychotherapy is to help you learn coping skills, develop positive behaviors, and improve your overall quality of life. In some cases, we may suggest medication to be prescribed in conjunction with therapy.

OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). People with OCD often feel compelled to perform specific actions or rituals to alleviate their anxiety. These behaviors can interfere with daily life and cause significant distress. While the exact cause of OCD is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors may contribute to its development. OCD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and tic disorders. 

Treatment for OCD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for OCD and it focuses on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to obsessions and compulsions. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is a specific type of CBT that involves gradually exposing you to anxiety-provoking situations and preventing you from performing compulsive behaviors. This helps you learn to tolerate anxiety and reduce the need to perform compulsive behaviors. Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also be effective in reducing symptoms of OCD. In some cases we may recommend a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults. It’s commonly characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity and is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors, but is mostly known as a dysfunction in the dopamine system in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating attention, motivation, and rewards.  Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, fidgeting or restlessness, interrupting or intruding on others, and impulsive decision-making. These symptoms can interfere with your daily life, including school or work performance, and can impact your social relationships. 

ADHD can also impact your emotional regulation ability and increase your sensitivity to rejection. Those with ADHD may have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to emotional dysregulation and outbursts and may be more sensitive to rejection or criticism, leading to increased feelings of sadness or anger. This sensitivity to rejection is often referred to as rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) and can be a symptom in those with ADHD. Learning skills for emotional regulation and coping with rejection sensitivity, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and social skills training can call be helpful in managing these symptoms.

The treatment for ADHD typically includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Stimulant medication, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, can be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD, but is not a cure. These medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain that regulate attention and impulse control. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can also be helpful in managing symptoms of ADHD. CBT can teach you skills for managing organization, time management, and stress reduction. It can also help you develop coping strategies for dealing with the emotional impact of the disorder. Additionally, non-pharmacological treatments, such as exercise and behavioral interventions, may also increase dopamine levels and improve attention.

ANXIETY

Anxiety is a normal response to stress or perceived threat, but when anxiety becomes excessive or prolonged, it can become a disorder. Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive worry, fear, and avoidance behaviors. The etiology is complex and likely involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors. Symptoms can include physical symptoms such as sweating, palpitations, and trembling, as well as psychological symptoms such as persistent worry, restlessness, and irritability. Anxiety can significantly impact your daily life, making it difficult to work, socialize, or engage in your regular activities.

Psychotherapy is a common and effective treatment for anxiety disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used and focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing you to the feared object or situation, allowing you to become more comfortable and desensitized to the anxiety. Other types of psychotherapy that can be effective in treating anxiety disorders include acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines, may also be used in conjunction with therapy.  

GRIEF AND LOSS

Grief is a complex emotional response to loss and can include feelings of sadness, guilt, anger, and confusion. The experience of grief can be impacted by a variety of factors, including the type of loss, your support system, and coping strategies. Grief can be incredibly challenging to navigate and can lead to depression and anxiety.

Therapy can be a beneficial to help support you through your grief. We can help you process your emotions, understand your reactions, and develop coping skills to manage your grief. We may use a variety of techniques in grief counseling, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and narrative therapy. CBT can help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that may be contributing to your grief, while mindfulness-based therapy can help you stay present and centered during difficult emotions. Narrative therapy can help you find meaning and develop a sense of closure. In addition to individual counseling, support groups can also be a helpful resource. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for you to share your experiences with others who are going through similar struggles.

IVF/INFERTILITY TREATMENT

Fertility treatment can be a difficult and emotional process for those trying to conceive and psychotherapy can be a helpful tool in managing the stress and emotional toll it takes. We can help provide a safe and supportive space for you to process your emotions and concerns related to your treatment and develop coping strategies and communication skills to manage the stress.

In addition to providing emotional support, we can also help you manage uncertainty of the fertility treatment process, improve your relationship with your partner, and develop a sense of control over your fertility journey. Therapy can also help you set and maintain healthy boundaries. By exploring your values, needs, and limits, you can learn to communicate effectively with your providers, support network, partner, and family and friends about your boundaries. We can provide guidance and support in developing assertiveness skills and setting realistic expectations, empowering you to advocate for yourself and protect your emotional well-being.

POST PARTUM ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Postpartum anxiety is characterized by excessive worry and fear, while postpartum depression involves feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. Both can significantly impact your ability to care for your newborn and adjust to motherhood. The etiology of postpartum anxiety and depression is complex and can involve a combination of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, stress, lack of support, and past mental health history.

Psychotherapy can be an effective treatment for postpartum anxiety and depression and can provide a safe and supportive space for you process your emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve your self-care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are two common types of psychotherapy that are helpful. In addition to psychotherapy, medication may also be used in conjunction. Antidepressants, in particular, have been shown to be effective. The most important thing for new mothers experiencing postpartum anxiety and depression is to seek support and treatment as soon as possible. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to recover and enjoy motherhood.

NEW PARENT TRANSITIONS

Becoming a new parent can be a time of immense joy, but it can also come with its share of challenges and difficulties. It’s common for new parents to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and uncertain about their new role as caregivers. As therapists, we understand that each person’s experience of parenthood is unique, and we work to create a safe and supportive space where parents can explore their feelings and concerns without judgment. We help guide parents as they you explore your thoughts and feelings, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and develop effective strategies for coping skills. Through therapy, you can develop skills to manage the stresses of parenthood, communicate effectively with your partner, and improve your relationship with your child.

Therapy can also help new parents identify and address any underlying mental health concerns that may arise during this transition. It is not uncommon for parents to experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues as they adjust to parenthood.

We can also help you gain insight into your values, beliefs, and expectations which can help you make informed decisions about how you want to parent. Additionally, we can help you improve your communication skills, develop self-care strategies, and create a support network that can help you through the ups and downs of parenting.

LIFE TRANSITIONS

Life transitions, such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, ending a relationship, or becoming a parent, can be challenging and emotionally taxing. These transitions can disrupt your routines, beliefs, and sense of identity, causing you to feel anxious, stressed, and uncertain about your future. Psychotherapy can provide a safe and supportive space for you to process your emotions, gain insight into your strengths and weaknesses, and develop effective coping skills.

Through therapy, you can learn to identify and challenge negative thought patterns that may be contributing to your anxiety or stress. We can also help you develop practical skills, such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques, that can help manage the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety. Additionally, therapy can provide guidance and support in making decisions related to life transitions, such as whether to accept a job offer, how to cope with a difficult breakup, or how to adjust to a new cultural environment.

Overall, therapy can be a valuable resource when going through various life transitions and can help you develop the resilience and coping skills needed to navigate the ups and downs of life with greater ease and confidence. By providing a safe and supportive environment for exploration and growth, therapy can empower you to embrace change, overcome challenges, and live a more fulfilling life.

SELF ESTEEM AND IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT

Developing a healthy sense of self-esteem and a positive identity is a fundamental aspect of our mental and emotional wellbeing. However, many struggle with low self-esteem and identity issues, which can lead to feelings of self-doubt, insecurity, and a lack of fulfillment in life. Psychotherapy can be helpful to improve your self-esteem and develop a more positive sense of identity.

 

Through therapy, we can help you explore the underlying beliefs and thought patterns that may be contributing to your negative self-image. We employ a non-judgmental and supportive space for you to express your thoughts and feelings and identify your strengths and values. We can help you develop practical strategies for improving your self-esteem, such as setting realistic goals, practicing self-care, and building healthy relationships.

We can also help you build a stronger sense of identity through evaluating your values, beliefs, and goals. By exploring your past experiences and relationships, you can gain insight into the factors that have shaped your identity, and work towards creating a more positive and fulfilling sense of self.

WORK/LIFE BALANCE

Achieving a healthy work-life balance can be a challenge for many people, especially those who work in high-stress or demanding jobs. Balancing work obligations with personal responsibilities and self-care can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of stress, burnout, and a lack of fulfillment. Psychotherapy can provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your work-life balance, identify areas of stress or dissatisfaction, and develop effective strategies for creating a more balanced and fulfilling life. 

We can help you identify the underlying factors that may be contributing to your work-life imbalance, such as perfectionism, poor time management, or a lack of boundaries. Through therapy, you can learn to challenge negative thought patterns and develop practical skills, such as mindfulness and stress reduction techniques, that can help you manage the physical and emotional symptoms of work-related stress. Additionally, we can help you develop a more realistic and fulfilling sense of priorities, values, and goals, and work towards creating a more balanced and meaningful life.

RELATIONSHIP CONCERNS AND NAVIGATING DIFFICULT RELATIONSHIPS

Navigating difficult relationships can be incredibly challenging and can have a significant impact on our well-being. Whether it’s a strained relationship with a partner, family member, or friend, it can be difficult to know how to approach these relationships in a way that feels healthy and fulfilling. Psychotherapy can help you improve your relationships and provide a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

We can help you gain insight into the underlying dynamics that may be contributing to your complicated relationships. We can also help you identify patterns of behavior, communication styles, and emotional triggers, and work collaboratively with you to develop more effective ways of communicating and relating to others. Additionally, we can help you set healthy boundaries, develop strategies for managing conflict, and build skills for assertiveness and self-care.

Therapy can also provide you with a greater sense of self-awareness, which can be essential for navigating difficult relationships. By exploring you own thoughts and emotions, you can gain insight into your own needs, values, and goals, and work towards developing a greater sense of self-confidence and self-worth.

STRESS MANAGEMENT AND BURNOUT

Stress and burnout are pervasive problems in today’s fast-paced society. The pressure to succeed, coupled with an ever-increasing workload and an inability to manage stress can lead to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Therapy can help you better manage your stress, providing a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, identify sources of stress, and develop effective coping strategies.

Through therapy, you will gain insight into the underlying causes of your stress, such as unrealistic expectations, lack of support, or unhealthy coping mechanisms. We can help you develop practical strategies for managing stress, such as mindfulness techniques, time management, and boundary setting. Additionally, we can provide guidance and support in developing healthy habits, such as exercise, nutrition, and self-care, which can have a positive impact on both your mental and physical health. 

Our therapists can also help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness by exploring your thoughts and emotions. You will work on identifying negative patterns of thinking and behavior, learn to challenge negative self-talk, and develop a greater sense of self-compassion.

TRAUMA

Trauma is an incredibly challenging and often life-altering experience that can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and disconnected from the world around you. Trauma can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, natural disasters, accidents, or witnessing violence. The effects of trauma can be long-lasting, but psychotherapy can help you heal from trauma, while providing a safe and supportive space to process your experiences and develop coping skills.

Through therapy, you can learn to understand the impact of trauma on your life and develop healthy coping skills. We can help you develop practical strategies for managing anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of trauma, such as hypervigilance, flashbacks, and nightmares. Our team will also help you rebuild a sense of safety and trust, both within yourself and in your relationships with others. 

We provide a space for clients to process their emotions and develop a greater sense of self-awareness. We can help you explore the impact of your trauma on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and learn to challenge negative self-talk and belief systems that may be hindering your healing process.

BODY IMAGE

Body image issues can have a significant impact on your well-being, affecting your self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. Through therapy, we can help you gain insight into the underlying factors that contribute to your body image issues, such as societal pressures, past experiences, or negative self-talk. We can help you develop more positive and realistic attitudes towards your body, challenge negative beliefs and behaviors and promote self-acceptance and self-compassion. By exploring your own thoughts and emotions, you will be able to identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking and behavior and develop a greater sense of self-worth. Additionally, we can work alongside dieticians and psychiatrists to help provide you guidance and support in developing healthy habits related to diet, exercise, and self-care.

PERFECTIONISM

Perfectionism can have a significant impact on your mental health and well-being, affecting your self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life. Through therapy, you can gain insight into the underlying factors that contribute to your perfectionism, such as past experiences, societal pressures, or negative self-talk. We can help you develop more positive and realistic attitudes towards yourself, challenging negative beliefs and behaviors, and promote self-acceptance and self-compassion. We can also provide guidance and support in developing healthy coping strategies related to failure, setbacks, and mistakes, which can help you learn to tolerate imperfection and let go of unrealistic expectations.

EMOTION REGULATION

Emotion regulation is a crucial aspect of mental health and well-being, but it can be a challenge for some. Through therapy, you can gain insight into the underlying factors that contribute to difficulties with emotion regulation, such as past experiences, stressors, or maladaptive coping strategies. We can help you develop more positive and effective strategies for managing your emotions, such as mindfulness techniques, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation exercises. Additionally, we can provide guidance and support in developing healthy habits related to self-care, sleep, and nutrition.

Therapy can also help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness, which can help improve your ability to regulate your emotions. By exploring your thoughts and emotions, you can identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking and behavior and develop a greater sense of self-control and self-acceptance.

Gain insight and make lasting and effective changes.

With a non-judgmental professional by your side.