Marriage Counseling Therapists in Elmira, NY

I have had the great privilege of serving a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over two decades of professional practice. In that time I have worked with a vast array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, marital and family struggles, substance abuse, trauma in all of its forms, esteem and self-worth, identity, disordered eating, academic and employment challenges, death and dying, and transitions across the life span. My approach is direct, supportive, and educational, and my ultimate intention is to literally teach you how to be your own therapist.

My job, as I see it, is to help people get "unstuck". I can't "fix" you, you are not broken. I find out a client or a couple's strengths and help them build from where they are at. I share tools that you can take home and use in your daily life. Examples: ways to cope with anxiety or more effective ways of communicating with your loved ones.

I AM CURRENTLY. UNABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS Seeing a therapist -- this is not an easy step you’re considering. Putting your most vulnerable thoughts and feelings in the hands of a stranger takes some courage and a bit of a leap of faith. Whether you’re feeling anxious or depressed, or are in a troubled marriage or relationship, or struggling with issues that have no label, you’re probably feeling stuck. Stuck is when people call a therapist. It’s after they have tried everything: waiting for things to get better, talking to friends or relatives, or reading self-help books.

Are you in need of support while you navigate through life difficulties? Do you have emotional struggles that you are not sure how to manage? Relationship struggles? Difficulty setting boundaries with others? Do you have past trauma? Do you come from a dysfunctional family dynamic? Are you an adult child of a dysfunctional parent and unsure how to heal from your upbringing? Allow me to guide you through your personal therapy experience of learning, self-exploration, and achievement of mental and emotional growth.

If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or other difficulties such as excessive stress, we can work together to enhance your coping through problem-solving, insight, and support. In addition, for those who have experienced trauma, I am able to offer EMDR. I believe inner growth is an ongoing process throughout life, and I see it as a privilege to catalyze growth and healing in my clients.

Someone once told me, "The best view comes after the hardest climb". Many of us have experienced loss, suffering, pain and heartache. Although we don't intend, it can be easy to stay in a feeling of defeat. Finding hope and seeing the incredible view after a journey uniquely climbed is where my passion lies.

"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." C.S. Lewis

I love working with a variety of concerns and people. I have worked with adult individuals, couples, and led groups at times. I also enjoy working with teens. I have a laid back and open minded approach. I work hard during session to help people feel safe and accepted for who they are, while also giving them feedback and support. Most often, I work with individuals struggling to get along with each other, or facing problems from their present or past, or who are trying to reinvent a more authentic version of themselves. I do not claim to have all the answers but I think together we can find them.

I am passionate about helping people find healing, hope, and resilience that already lies within, just waiting to be uncovered. For many years I've resonated with the philosophy of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken objects with gold, believing that we are stronger and more beautiful for having been broken. That is how I approach my life and my work. The step to seek support when navigating life’s challenges, transitions, and losses is brave and courageous. That is why I offer an inclusive, trauma-informed, strengths based approach focused on holistic wellness.

I am here for you to discover individualized paths to solve issues related to feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, or going through bouts of depression ; family, relationship, or parenting problems; most forms of trauma, abuse, and general life crises My expertise also includes helping people with newly diagnosed or chronic medical conditions, and people who are struggling with adjusting to a new phase of life. You can expect the therapy methods used to be tailored to your unique situation and what’s best to support you in your daily life. We’ll work together to create a safe space so you can learn more about yourself and grow.

Therapy can be a transformational process of self-discovery facilitated by deeper levels of awareness and change. I believe we have an inherent ability to heal ourselves, and my primary focus is to honor and trust your experience. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors can interfere with living a fulfilling life, causing problems in your life and relationships, and leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, lost or numb. I believe that therapy should meet the individual where they are within their unique set of circumstances.

Therapy can allow individuals to heal, evolve and increase positive emotional states of self-worth. Given the opportunity to actively help young adults and families towards reducing barriers and communication errors, the therapeutic process can be very rewarding. As a therapist, offering therapeutic strategies and tasks can help support an individual's day to day. My demeanor is warm and welcoming while working collaboratively with my clients in order to help them to define their personal goals.

The greatest gift we can give ourselves is the freedom to be who we really are. I am happy that you are reaching out to get support for what you are experiencing in your life right now. As a Sex Therapist, I specialize in sexual and gender-affirming therapy. I work with individuals and couples. My approach is one of openness and compassion. Together, we create a safe and supportive space to work on what matters most to you. I also work with individuals experiencing religious trauma and out-of-control sexual behavior (pornography).

I believe that therapy should be a safe place for you to explore your experiences and beliefs in a nurturing, authentic, and empowering space. Through this process, you will be able to get to know yourself, heal unresolved pain, and create a hopeful vision for your life. I work from a neurodiverse informed and trauma informed perspective.