(301) 335-1954
Coping with Grief and Loss
The loss of someone important to us can initiate a journey with profound psychological consequences. Coping with the loss of a family member or close friend may be one of the hardest challenges that many of us face. A difficult relationship with the deceased or an un unexpected, sudden or violent adds another layer to grief. I have specialized training in suicide bereavement, one of life's most devastating and traumatic experiences, and am myself, a long-term suicide loss survivor. I treat bereavement related PTSD and help you regulate the pain, make peace with the loss, and recover your hope and resilience.
Neurocognitive Disorders
ADHD, Concussion/Traumatic Brain Injury, Age-related Cognitive Decline
As a specialist in the brain and human behavior, I have substantial professional experience in evaluating, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating individuals with neurodevelopmental, neurological and injury-related cognitive difficulties. I have specialized training and experience in working with adults with ADHD, individuals who have sustained a concussion or more severe traumatic brain injury, and older people experiencing illnesses and degenerative conditions that produce cognitive and behavioral changes. I worked with the military health system to develop clinical guidelines and tools for the treatment of of traumatic brain brain injury, authored publications about cognitive rehabilitation, and effectively worked with many young and older adults with ADHD to improve their relationships and address career concerns.
Divorce Adjustment
No one enters into marriage expecting it to end yet, 20% of first marriages end in divorce within five years and 50% dissolve by 20 years; the divorce rates for second and third marriages are even higher. The divorce rate in people at midlife and beyond ("gray divorce") has risen dramatically over the past several decades. Separation and divorce are emotionally difficult events which can provoke intense emotions, overwhelming changes, and family upheaval. I provide you with much more than support as you navigate this challenge by helping you identify your goals during and after the divorce, manage your emotions, effectively communicate, co-parent minor children, address the needs of adult children, and redefine your life. As someone who has not only survived but thrived since a late-life divorce, I have the personal experience and psychological expertise to help you heal and move forward in your life.
Supporting Adolescents and Young Adults with Eating Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, and other Serious Mental Illnesses
When adolescent and young adults experience life-threatening psychological difficulties, it affects not only them but their parents and siblings. In addition to working with the young person, I offer family consultation to help parents understand these complex mental health disorders, effectively interact with their affected family member, manage their own strong emotions, and engage in problem-solving to empower the family to actively participate in their child's recovery. As a certified addictions professional, I have helped many young people recover from the grip of an addiction. In addition, I supported one of my daughters through a protracted course of anorexia nervosa to sustained recovery and bring that experiential lens to the consulting room.
