About Me
I provide individual therapy (adults and adolescents), clinical supervision, and training/consultation on high-risk assessment and intervention in private practice settings.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in mental health.
Originally from Ireland, I moved to NYC at a young age without family or many supports. My journey to adulthood was far from straightforward, filled with twists and turns that taught me the value of accepting help when it's offered. As a therapist, being there for someone when they need support means a great deal to me.
My own experience with therapy has shown me how challenging it can be to find someone who truly sees you and cares enough to ask the right questions. I strive to be that person for my clients – authentic, interested, and enthusiastic about helping you navigate your own path forward. You are the expert on your own life, and my role is to support you in creating a fulfilling life that aligns with what matters most to you.
About my Practice
In my clinical practice, I work with individuals who are experiencing a wide range of emotional concerns such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, and conflict. I have a particular specialty in working with those experiencing thoughts of suicide or who engage in self-harm.
My approach to therapy is grounded in warmth, collaboration, and open conversation. My goal is to work with you to ease any immediate distress and begin to focus on developing coping skills that you can use long after therapy has ended.
In my practice, I use a Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) approach, which involves not only addressing the events causing current distress but also exploring the interpretations, emotions, and behaviors they trigger. By challenging our interpretations, we often uncover old coping strategies that may have served a purpose in the past but are no longer effective for who we are today. Together, we work to develop new coping strategies and skills tailored to your present needs and circumstances.
Additionally, I incorporate elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), focusing on mindfulness and equipping you with tools for managing distress and regulating emotions. These skills are invaluable, empowering you to handle present stressors and navigate future challenges with confidence.
Embarking on therapy can be daunting, and I admire the courage it takes to share your thoughts and feelings openly. Creating a safe and nurturing environment is my priority, ensuring you feel comforted and seen. I believe deeply in the importance of respect, connection, and humor in fostering trust and facilitating meaningful growth and healing.
My Training and Experience
I am a licensed clinical social worker (NY, NJ, CT) and psychotherapist. I was born and raised in Ireland and received my BA in Psychology from University College Dublin. After coming to the US, I received both my Masters and Ph.D. from Columbia University School of Social Work. I am trained in a wide range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Before I began my private practice, I worked in a range of community-based settings providing crisis intervention services, short-term therapy, and clinical supervision and training.
For many years, I served as the lead clinician on a psychiatric mobile crisis team, providing in-home psychiatric assessments and crisis support in the aftermath of trauma.
In my most recent role as the Asst. Deputy Director for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) I led a clinical team to establish national standards of practices in suicide assessment for telephone, chat, and text-based services. These now serve as the standardized approach for crisis centers nationwide through the newly established 988 service.
I bring the knowledge I have developed in over 15 years at the Lifeline to my practice and, in addition to addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and mental health crises, I work extensively with individuals (both adults and teens) at risk of suicide and non-suicidal self-injury.
Everyone needs a little help sometimes
Get in touch to book an appointment