How do you work with clients?

I work with children, teens, and adults and see them individually as couples and/or families. The first thing I want to know when we first meet is what is the problem that brings you here? After we talk about the problem at hand, I will ask you some questions in order to get to know you and your family better. My training and experience as a clinical social worker has shown me that we are all connected and that we all operate as part of a system. What this means is that if one person has a problem, chances are that this is having an impact on others such as family or close friends.

Some issues or patterns can repeat themselves throughout many generations. This is why I will draw a family tree or "genogram" for each person I see in therapy. The genogram contains facts about births, deaths, illness, and schooling and also lists information about how people relate (d) to each other. Sample questions might include were there unspoken rules in your house growing up? Who was known as the "responsible" one or the "baby of the family" and why? It is this type of exploration that can set the stage for the work we will do in therapy.

How do you work with couples?

When I see couples in therapy, I will do a genogram for each partner. It is interesting to note that we are oftentimes drawn to our mate because they complete some part of us that might have been missing growing up. This beginning, romantic part of your relationship can feel truly wonderful and magical. Over time or if you do have children, the magic can fade and be replaced by the real work that is a long-term relationship. Helping to build communication skills and navigate through long-term relationships is one of my areas of specialty.

Can you tell me about your work with parents and children?

In addition to support for new parents and moms struggling with postpartum depression, I also am available for parenting consultations. In addition to my clinical training in child psychology and development, I am also a parent myself. I can offer both experience and training in supporting parents who are concerned about their child’s temperament and/or development. I see children and teens for help with anxiety and/or depression.

How do you describe your orientation or style? What techniques do you incorporate in your practice?

I usually see people for short-term talk therapy. It is my understanding that most people are doing the best that they can within the situation they are dealing with. It is not helpful to blame but it is important to understand why things play out in a certain way.

In addition to family systems, I use cognitive/behavioral techniques, art, and play therapy as tools in my practice. I believe that it is valuable to learn relaxation techniques to begin to sit with how you feel, tolerate it, and breathe through it.

To make an appointment, feel free to leave a confidential voicemail or send an email.

4000 Albemarle Street NW, Suite 504, Washington, DC 20016

Tel: 202-215-2790 |