Hello, I’m Jessica-therapist, social worker, mother, and children’s book author. I specialize in supporting children, teens and adults through life challenges and transitions. I help parents navigate the challenges of parenthood and strengthen parent-child connections. I also help children with adjustment, anxiety and stress. I’ve supported adults with relationship challenges, trauma, physical illness and cancer, substance use disorders, anxiety and depression. Grief is also one of my specialties-I have 20 years of experience supporting grieving adults and children.

I obtained a degree in psychology at the University of Pittsburgh and completed my master’s degree in social work at Columbia University. I also attended a five year post-graduate training program at the Institute for Psychoanalytic Training and Research and earned a certificate in child and adolescent psychotherapy. Because each person and situation is unique, I use an individualized approach that might evolve and change as we learn more together. I strongly value the psychoanalytic training I’ve received because it can be helpful to look back to understand the influences of our strengths, internal challenges, thoughts, emotions, and triggers. I am also trained as a certified trauma clinical professional, as well as in techniques to reduce stress and anxiety including breathing exercises and mindfulness, CBT techniques, and creative expression. With children I use play therapy, yoga and meditation, art, music, and other creative modalities. 

Therapy can be an opportunity for self exploration and growth, decreased stress, improved mental and physical health, and confidence in making changes and life decisions. I believe that therapy can be very effective and fulfilling when we can work together as a team. Without judgment, I’m here to listen and accept the feelings and experiences you bring to therapy. I look forward to meeting with you!