Individual Therapy
The therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool for healing. It creates a private environment for processing painful emotions and gaining clarity regarding one’s values and goals. I specialize in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and related women's issues by utilizing an individualized approach to create a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs. Primary therapeutic approaches include Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapies.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) focuses on the impact of one’s relationships on the experience of depression. We know that relationships can have a profound impact on our mood, and IPT aims to explore the ways in which relational patterns, new roles in our lives (particularly motherhood), and grief contribute to one’s current level of suffering. Through exploration of emotion and at-home practice assignments, you will gain an understanding of your emotions and learn new strategies to improve your relationships and your outlook.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on the connection between one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The therapist helps you to identify negative thought patterns that may be leading to depressed mood, and to challenge and reframe those thoughts in a gentle way. You will also be encouraged to increase engagement in pleasant activities, connect with others, and find ways to build mastery.
Mindfulness is one of the best ways to learn to slow down and smell the roses. It is paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment without judgment. It is the practice of gaining awareness of the world around and within you so that you can appreciate each moment and can proceed thoughtfully. Mindfulness can be practiced as a formal meditation, or can be used informally by attending to all stimuli when engaging in daily activities. When you’re juggling all of the responsibilities of motherhood, household chores, breastfeeding, pumping, your social life, and perhaps returning to work or school, you may find that your days consist of a series of reactions, with little intentional movement toward what you value. When someone is suffering with perinatal distress or with infertility and loss, it can feel as though she is on autopilot or “going through the motions.” Concentration, sleep habits, and self-esteem can be compromised. Mindfulness helps to sharpen concentration skills, improve sleep quality, and increase a sense of gratitude.
Talking with a trained mental health professional in a non-judgmental space can allow for open, authentic exploration of what's most important to you as you navigate your personal journey. Contact me today if you would like to schedule a free phone consultation; there's no better time in your life than right now to get started.