Anxiety is an unpleasant, but natural part of the human experience. Though we may wish at times to "get rid" of anxiety entirely, that’s impossible--and in fact, we need anxiety sometimes to alert us of possible danger and prepare our bodies for a survival response (fight or flight). The problem of course, is when anxiety shows up regularly, and in situations where we are not in any physical danger at all. For many of us, anxiety can act like an internal bully, convincing us that we are not capable of meeting even ordinary life challenges. In our work together, we’ll seek to cultivate a different relationship with anxiety: one in which YOU are in charge. Paradoxically, the more we are able to accept and tolerate the discomfort of anxiety, the less power it has over us. By identifying your triggers, examining unhelpful behaviors in response, and cultivating mindful acceptance, I’ll help you reduce the power anxiety has over you so that you can live a more courageous and full life.

Assertiveness coaching is a cornerstone of my work, and I believe an essential part of good therapy. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I’ll work closely with you to explore the underlying factors that contribute to difficulties in expressing yourself confidently. In the safe and supportive space provided in the therapy room, I’ll help you develop greater self-awareness, identify negative thought patterns, and cultivate effective communication skills. Additionally, I’ll provide practical tools and strategies to help you set boundaries, express your needs and wants, and navigate challenging interpersonal dynamics. From assertiveness training to role-playing exercises, my goal will be to facilitate personal growth and empower you to authentically assert yourself in all areas of your life.

Setting healthy boundaries is a fundamental aspect of my therapeutic approach. Through open and compassionate dialogue, I will guide you in understanding the importance of boundaries in fostering healthy relationships and maintaining your overall well-being. Together, we’ll explore your needs, values, and personal limits, allowing you to establish clear boundaries that align with your emotional, physical, and mental health. I empower clients to communicate their boundaries assertively while promoting self-respect and respect for others. By cultivating self-awareness, identifying green and red flags in relationships, and practicing assertive communication, I’ll assist you in navigating challenging relationships and achieving a greater sense of personal autonomy and fulfillment in your life.

Women face unique challenges in a patriarchal society, such as unfair and contradictory societal expectations, juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, and embracing both their feminine and masculine sides while coping with socially-induced shame. These pressures can lead to stress, feelings of loneliness, and self-doubt. As a male therapist, I recognize my unique role in helping to undo toxic masculinity and its influence on these challenges. I strive to create a warm and safe space where my female clients can feel truly listened to and valued.

In this supportive environment, I aim to challenge and redefine traditional gender norms that often contribute to feelings of inadequacy or isolation. By fostering open conversations and encouraging self-exploration, we can build resilience and empower you to recognize and embrace your strengths. Together, with empathy and collaboration, we can work towards achieving balance and a more fulfilling life. In doing so, we not only address the individual struggles faced by women but also contribute to a broader dialogue about healthy masculinity, and the importance of supportive relationships.

Many men wonder, how can I embrace my masculinity, without the "toxic" part? The cultural and social forces of patriarchy, capitalism, rugged individualism, and stoicism, along with many others, have robbed many boys of the experience of growing up with emotionally-attuned, caring and empathetic male figures. As a male therapist, I am able to model the emotional experience that many of us didn’t get in childhood.

Men often struggle with holding both the awareness of their privileged status in society, while also feeling they need to mask their vulnerability in order to feel "manly enough" and fit societal expectations. In your therapy with me, we can explore all of this cultural complexity together, in the safe and encouraging space of the therapy room. By helping you identify and align with your values, we can redefine what being a man means to you, reframe vulnerability as strength, and help you move through life with greater authenticity and confidence.

Adolescence is a very tender phase of life that is challenging for most young people. Teenagers are transitioning into adulthood, feeling the pressure of college applications/future plans after high school looming and wondering "what am I going to do with my life?" All the while, they are grappling with intense social pressure through social media, raging hormones, developing brains, and increased responsibility and independence. I have worked with teens both in a school setting as well as private practice. I’ve found that giving young people a safe, accepting and confidential space to process, normalize, and understand their big emotions, as well as learn healthy coping skills and tools, proves to be invaluable, and I feel honored to help teens and preteens during this important developmental stage of life.

Imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon characterized by persistent feelings of self-doubt, the fear of being exposed as a fraud, and the belief that one's achievements are merely a result of luck rather than skill or hard work. Through a combination of empathetic listening, cognitive restructuring, and externalization techniques, I’ll help you identify and challenge the inner critical voice and negative beliefs that fuel imposter syndrome. Together, we’ll explore your unique strengths and accomplishments, reframing your internal narrative to shift towards self-compassion, authenticity, and self-acceptance.

Many people in the creative professions struggle to find the balance between meeting their own high artistic and professional standards while maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. The perpetual pursuit of excellence, paired with the pressure to constantly produce innovative and meaningful work, can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. In our work together, we’ll identify and highlight the importance of self-care and establishing healthy internal boundaries. We’ll uncover the ingredients that allow your creativity to flourish without sacrificing the time needed for self-reflection, downtime, fun, and meaningful relationships. I’ll work alongside you to explore the unhelpful underlying beliefs and thought patterns that drive perfectionism. By addressing unrealistic expectations, fear of failure, and self-criticism, you will begin to cultivate a more balanced and self-compassionate mindset.

People-pleasers regularly seek validation and approval from others, often at the expense of their own needs and well-being. While it may seem like a selfless and admirable trait, people-pleasing can be detrimental to one's mental health and relationships. In our work together, I’ll help you recognize your own needs and boundaries and learn to communicate them assertively. By setting healthy boundaries and increasing your self-worth, you’ll naturally begin to prioritize your own well-being, without feeling guilty or anxious about disappointing others. Paradoxically, when we’re better able to take care of ourselves and assert our boundaries, our relationships become healthier, more authentic, and fulfilling.

I specialize in guiding clients through phase of life transitions and the existential questions that commonly arise in the process, understanding that these periods can bring significant uncertainty and anxiety. With compassion and empathy, I’ll work closely with you to explore your deepest thoughts, emotions, and concerns regarding your purpose and meaning in life. Through open and thought-provoking conversations, I’ll help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your values, enabling you to navigate through these transitions with clarity and purpose. With a focus on self-reflection and personal growth, I’ll empower you to find fulfillment and embrace the opportunities that arise during these transformative stages.