Therapists for college students near University of Pennsylvania
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing diagnostic assessment and evidence based psychotherapy for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. I have diagnosed and treated a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders in inpatient, emergency, outpatient, and telehealth settings. I also have specialized training in treating adolescents and young adults with co-occurring physical and mental health conditions. I use a collaborative approach to create an individualized treatment plan that capitalizes on existing strengths and aligns with patients' short- and long-term goals for treatment. I obtained my PhD in Clinical Psychology at Case Western Reserve University, followed by a clinical internship at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. My postdoctoral research training at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine focuses on promoting well-being during life transitions among individuals and families experiencing chronic stress. To learn more about the services that I offer and my approach to assessment and treatment, please call or text me (412-334-9214) to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.
I have been practicing within the fields of counseling, education and human services since obtaining my first Master’s degree from Central Connecticut State University in 2002. Obtaining a second Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at La Salle University, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a, Internationally Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I am honored that my path has brought me to Bucks Support Services in both Newtown and Buckingham, PA, where we treat individuals, couples and families impacted by depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, LGBTQI+ topics, trauma processing/PTSD, relational challenges, behavioral disorders and support system disconnection. Drawing from a variety of treatment styles and approaches, I focus on connection and the emotional experience, authenticity, empathic understanding and compassion. My current affiliation with the Bucks Eating Support Collaborative, Bucks Recovery Center, and Bucks LGBTQ Center as well as the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), American Psychological Association (APA), the International Psychology Honors Society (PSI CHI) and recognition as a member of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health (WPATH), further validate how my practice offers clients a professional experience, connection and environment where they can feel safe to explore life's challenging dynamics with freedom and without judgment.
Making that first call feels like failing. You have "no time for therapy"--you're already spread thin. You've tried everything, but nothing seems to be working. And even when it does, it's only for a moment. You are ready to feel like you are thriving instead of merely surviving. ...It's a little terrifying to think about diving into the things weighing you down though, right? Ask yourself this (and be honest!): "Can I keep going like I am now? And if I do, what will that look like?" Change occurs when--despite the discomfort and not quite knowing how you'll get there--all you know is you can't keep doing what you're doing. I've been told by many clients that I really hear them. I believe in asking YOU what you'd like to gain from therapy and asking YOU about your goals--not just basing them on a diagnosis. I don't talk *at* you--I talk *with* you. I take a "real" and informal approach. Laughter, making faces or noises are all acceptable ways to express emotions! I welcome you to bring coffee (or water or tea!) and sit wherever you feel comfortable in the room. It doesn't matter your age--you can color or draw, or just sit back and drink your coffee while we chat. I have a laid back style and it's important that my therapy room is a comfortable, relaxing environment. Reach out--let's see if we may be a good fit!
Most people who look at you might never know how much you are struggling. Your pattern of holding it all in, staying busy, or pulling away from others has worked well enough to get you through… till now. Now, it feels more like you’re caught in an endless maze of thoughts and worries, or like there’s a weighted blanket dragging you down. When anxiety or depression are present, everything in life can feel more difficult. I am a trauma-informed therapist specializing in helping you unpack those things that connect your past and present to build a more fulfilling, authentic future. I take a practical and straightforward approach to therapy and am comfortable with discomfort if it means making progress. As your therapist, I will take the time to see things from your point of view. You know your life best, so I will listen and understand. My sessions are open, honest, and thoughtful. Therapy shouldn't be another place where you have to pretend. I will work to understand the real you and use my experience to help you.
I offer supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic counseling services. I believe you already have your own answers and just need guidance and support to get to them. I have been practicing for over 20 years with specialties in Womens issues, Domestic violence, life transitions, Depression, anxiety, Trauma informed care, Substance use issues, Time management, and stress management. I am skilled with CBT, DBT, Motivational enhancement therapy, Motivational interviewing, and Trauma informed care models.
College can be a very difficult time for us. We may face some changes and also notice new expectations for ourselves during these transitional moments. It is highly likely to feel confused at times and unsure of where we see ourselves next. I want to help you become the best version of yourself so that you are better suited for making these decisions and feel comfortable with them! My Supervisor is Bill Coffey, License number: CW014371