Psychological trauma typically falls into 2 categories. “Big T” traumas are major catastrophic events that cause intense fear and helplessness such as violent assaults, sexual abuse, serious accidents or natural disasters. These events often lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other emotional difficulties including flashbacks, hypervigilance, avoidance behaviors and a persistent sense of danger.

“Little t” traumas, though often overlooked, can be equally damaging over time. These involve chronic emotional stressors such as growing up in a highly critical, chaotic or neglectful environment.  A child who experiences ongoing rejection, abandonment or emotional invalidation may develop deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness. Over time, this erodes a person’s sense of security and trust, leaving them feeling chronically on edge, emotionally numb or disconnected from others. These prolonged stressors can contribute to anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, addictions, low-self-esteem, people-pleasing, procrastination, relationship struggles, chronically entering toxic relationships as well as other self-sabotaging behaviors.

Recovery from trauma requires more than just time—it demands a structured and compassionate approach. In my practice, I primarily use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, which is proven to be highly effective in helping people process and heal from trauma. I also utilize Expressive Writing and intensive talk therapy to facilitate emotional expression and cognitive restructuring as well as to reduce avoidance and fear responses.

OCD is a debilitating condition that can disrupt daily life. OCD is marked by persistent unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions), often leading people to engage in repetitive physical behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) in an attempt to alleviate their anxiety. These compulsions can take many forms, such as excessive handwashing, checking, counting or seeking reassurance. While compulsions may provide temporary relief, they ultimately reinforce the cycle of OCD, making symptoms worse over time. Left untreated, OCD can interfere with relationships, work and overall well-being, leaving people feeling trapped in their own minds.

I use evidence-based treatments to help my clients regain control. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard. ERP helps people gradually confront their fears while resisting compulsions, teaching their brains that their anxiety will naturally decrease over time without the ritualistic behaviors. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) also play key roles by helping people develop mindfulness skills to detach from intrusive thoughts rather than fighting them. Additionally, for those whose OCD stems from trauma, I integrate EMDR therapy to process underlying distress.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health challenges I see in my practice. While anxiety is a natural response to stress, it can become overwhelming and disruptive when it persists, intensifies or interferes with daily life. Anxiety disorders take many forms including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), where people experience chronic and excessive worry; Panic Disorder, marked by sudden and debilitating panic attacks; Social Anxiety Disorder, characterized by a deep fear of social situations and judgment; Agoraphobia, which leads to avoidance of public places due to fear of being trapped or helpless; and Specific Phobias, intense fears of certain objects or situations.

In my practice, I utilized evidence-based treatments that empower you to break free from anxiety’s grip. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people challenge unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with more balanced perspectives. Systematic Desensitization with Graded Exposure is highly effective for phobias and social anxiety allowing you to face your fears gradually and safely. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) teaches mindfulness and resilience, helping you to accept your thoughts without letting them control your lives. For those whose anxiety stems from past trauma, I also integrate EMDR therapy to process unresolved experiences.

Depression is more than just sadness—it is a profound and persistent state of emotional pain that can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Depression often manifests as a deep sense of hopelessness, low energy, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities and difficulty concentrating. It can also include changes in sleep and appetite, feelings of worthlessness and in some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Depression often coexists with anxiety, trauma or other mental health struggles.

In my practice, I use evidence-based therapies to help people recover. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective in identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns that fuel depression. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people develop mindfulness skills and break free from emotional avoidance. For those with trauma-related depression, EMDR can be particularly effective. I also incorporate Expressive Writing and supportive talk therapy, fostering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, build resilience and rediscover hope.

Life is filled with transitions, losses and unexpected difficulties that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed or emotionally drained. Grief, whether from the loss of a loved one or a cherished pet can be an intensely painful experience, bringing sadness, loneliness and even guilt.  Major life transitions—such as retirement, career changes, moving to a new city or the end of a significant relationship—can evoke feelings of uncertainty, anxiety or a loss of identity. Even positive changes, like marriage or becoming a parent can be emotionally complex and challenging to navigate.

From my clinical perspective, these “problems in living” do not necessarily indicate a mental illness, but they can deeply impact your emotional well-being. Processing these experiences in a supportive, non-judgmental space is essential for healing and personal growth. In my practice, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people reframe negative thoughts, Mindfulness-Based Therapy to cultivate acceptance and resilience, and Expressive Writing to help process emotions. For grief and loss, EMDR in addition to talk therapy provide a compassionate space to process painful emotions and find meaning. My goal is to support you with warmth and understanding to help regain your resilience and balance so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Sexual Dysfunctions encompass challenges that interfere with a person’s ability to experience a satisfying sexual response. These include erectile dysfunction, female orgasmic disorder, penetration disorder and premature ejaculation. Causes can be psychological, physiological or a combination of both, often leading to frustration, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. Because sexual health is closely tied to emotional well-being, addressing these concerns is essential for overall life satisfaction.

Paraphilic Disorders involve persistent and intense sexual interests or behaviors that deviate from societal norms and cause distress or impairment. Conditions such as exhibitionism, voyeurism and fetishistic disorders can impact personal relationships and social functioning. While not all paraphilias require treatment, those that cause distress or lead to harmful behaviors may benefit from psychological intervention.

Many people struggle in silence due to embarrassment, unaware that effective treatments do exist. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective approach, helping people identify and modify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sexual difficulties. Traditional Behavior Therapy techniques, such as systematic desensitization can also be used to treat unwanted fetishes and promote healthy sexual expression. With the right guidance, people can regain confidence and experience fulfilling intimate relationships.

Addictive disorders encompass a broad spectrum of conditions characterized by compulsive behaviors and a loss of control over impulses. Chemical addictions involve substances like drugs and alcohol leading to physical and psychological dependence. Non-chemical or behavioral addictions, including pornography, food, sex and spending are marked by repetitive and excessive behaviors that interfere with daily functioning. These addictive patterns often serve as coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety or emotional pain. They create challenges that negatively impact relationships, work and overall well-being.

In my practice, I utilize therapies that have proven effectiveness in promoting recovery and sustained well-being. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely accepted approach that can help you identify and modify maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors associated with addiction. Relapse Prevention strategies focus on recognizing and managing triggers that may lead to relapse thus empowering you with effective coping mechanisms. Harm-Reduction Therapy offers a pragmatic and compassionate approach that emphasizes minimizing the negative consequences of the addition rather than strict abstinence. Mindfulness-Based Addictions Therapy (MBAT) incorporates mindfulness practices, such as self-awareness and meditation techniques to increase awareness of your cravings so as to develop healthier responses.