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Fruit and Leaves

Meet the Therapists

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Krystin Sankey, MS, LPC

*Accepting BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, McLaren, HAP, United HealthCare/Optum

When you experience stressful or traumatic life events, overwhelming emotions can take over and cause you to lose hope. You may feel worried, depressed, or anxious and notice you aren't as productive at work, school, or home. Your life feels like it has been turned upside down and you wonder if things will ever feel normal again. As a parent, you may feel guilt or shame for not being able to protect or help your child(ren). As a therapist or helping professional, you may feel that you are no longer capable of showing up for your clients. You may notice a change in behaviors that cause concern. You are not alone!

I believe that connection is a basic human need. When connections are strained or limited in our daily lives, we may feel alone and hopeless. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to help individuals build confidence and hope within their lives. I bring my whole heart and my whole self into your hour without judgment.

My experience as a clinical supervisor and consultant has provided me with an understanding of the broader stressors that impact therapists and other helping professionals in their work. Many therapists are anxious about seeking their own therapist due to the stigma, fear of being too difficult of a client/patient, being misunderstood or judged, or being viewed as a peer instead of as an individual client. If that is you, I hope you reach out. We are human first and I do my best to provide therapists with an inviting space to be your authentic and complete self.

I graduated from Indiana University-Bloomington with a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology and from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, minoring in Family Life Studies & Human Sexuality. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults for 15 years. Professional settings include a residential treatment center, Children’s Advocacy Center, youth shelter, and private practice.  
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I live in Grand Blanc with my Husband, our three boys, one dog, and one cat. I love traveling, the beach, and sunshine. I am not much of a risk taker but someday hope to cross sky diving off my bucket list!

Christina Arsenault, MA, LPC

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, McLaren, United HealthCare/Optum

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If you are looking for a safe and therapeutic environment to begin working on yourself, I am ready and willing to walk that road with you. Let's work together to create a space to begin focusing on your intentions, to begin healing from past wounds and trauma, and to work toward building hope for your future. I will assist you as you work toward your goals through traditional talk therapy and mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and grounding exercises. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. I want to help you feel empowered.

 

My therapy approach incorporates cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care. I utilize techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, and will always come from a strength-based approach to help you get the most out of your sessions. You're not meant to do this alone. Let me help you feel like yourself again. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me to see how I can help.

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I graduated with my Bachelors in Human Services in 2012, and I graduated with my Masters of Arts in Clinical Counseling from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2016. I have over 12 years experience working in various settings including community mental health agencies, high/at-risk youth center, children's advocacy center, and private practice.

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Christina
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Amy McDonald, MA, LPC, CST

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, United Behavioral Health/Optum, Out of Network (Telehealth & Midland) 

 

I am one of two AASECT (American Association of Sex Education Counselors and Therapists) certified therapists in the Great Lakes Bay region. I have my Master’s in Counseling from Spring Arbor University and a post-grad certification in sexual health and sex therapy from the University of Michigan.

 

I am passionate about helping individuals find their authentic self in a safe non-judgmental environment. I believe that sexual wellness is essential to our overall mental health.

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I have a background addressing a variety of topics related to sexuality and sexual wellness: Couples and Intimacy, Infidelity, Sexual orientation minorities, Transgender individuals, Gender identifying minorities, Relationship style minorities, Alternative Kink, and Sex Workers.  

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I also have an extensive background working with trauma at both a Domestic Violence Shelter and a Children's Advocacy Center. I also have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression. I enjoy helping others learn new ways of coping and offer a safe space to share. 

Amy

Katarena Seelman, MA, LPC

*Accepting BCBS, BCN, Out of Network (Telehealth Only) 

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Allow yourself to enter a safe and therapeutic space, primed to help you actualize your best self by identifying and resolving how your past experiences are coming into play in the present and causing you to feel inadequate, stuck, or unable to reach your goals. By working through your past trauma, attachment, and interpersonal issues within therapy, you can harness a more authentic connection with yourself, allowing you to be more genuine and congruent with others. I work alongside you to identify your desires and empower you to make necessary, positive changes in your life. I understand that making the decision to seek help can be difficult, so I use a person-centered, compassionate, direct, and non-judgmental approach to help foster a therapeutic environment where you feel supported in your counseling journey.

 

Several years ago, I discovered my passion for helping individuals and families rebuild their lives and relationships, moving through trauma, mental illness and abuse, to find meaningful connections, understanding, and love on the other side of the pain. My therapy approach incorporates trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy principles, as well as techniques from person-centered, EMDR, attachment-based, and strength-based therapy modalities. Ultimately, you are the expert on yourself and know your own needs best, so we work together for you to get the most out of your sessions.

 

I graduated with a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Kent State University in 2017 and prior to relocating to Ohio, I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. I have over three years of post-Master’s experience, and a decade of expertise working in community mental health agencies, a residential treatment center, and most recently, a robust children’s advocacy center in downtown Detroit, Michigan.

 

I currently reside in a suburb roughly 20 minutes outside of Detroit, with my podiatrist husband, two young boys, and our two dogs. I adore losing myself in a good book, sharing belly laughs with family, and going for runs in the summer sun.

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Katarena
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Alexandra Bushway, LLPC

*Accepting BCBS, Priority Health, Aetna (Novi & Telehealth Only) 

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Sometimes every step you take feels like its own battle. As a trauma survivor, you might not know why it feels so much harder for you than other people. When you’re trying to move forward in your life and you feel stuck, it can be so tempting to think things like “I should be over this” or “Other people handle this so much better than I can,” without acknowledging how far you have come, or maybe even taking the time to really process where you have been. That’s where I come in. 

 

I’m a collaborative therapist. You and I can work together to determine what you want for your life and your recovery from trauma, and I’ll use my knowledge and experience to help you get there. I utilize a variety of therapies, specialized to your unique needs and situation. We might discuss completing trauma processing, DBT, CBT, mindfulness, mind-body therapy, or a combination of multiple therapies. I’m trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ friendly, and I provide a safe space for people to lay it all out. I am here to help. 

 

I live in Canton with my partner of 6 years and we spend most of our time spoiling our giant Maine Coon cat. In my free time, you might see me supporting local music, visiting one of Michigan’s many small bookstores, feeding birds in our Metroparks, or antiquing! I am a Halloween enthusiast and if you’re one of my virtual clients, you might spot some spooky decor!

Alexandra
Heather

Heather Sheidler, LPC

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, Out of Network, Blue Care Network, United Behavioral Health, Priority Health (Grand Blanc & Telehealth Only)

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 I am a licensed professional counselor with 15 years of experience working in various mental health settings. I hold the strong belief that people are perfectly imperfect. They are beautiful and spectacular but can also become stuck, unhappy, and unable to live a fulfilling life. That's where I come in as I can help you navigate these feelings and offer a path forward.

 

My therapeutic approach incorporates several major theories of counseling (CBT, DBT, MI, ACT, and TF-CBT) and is strengths-based and person centered. I believe in a holistic approach that addresses the needs of the whole person-body, mind/emotions, and spirit! I draw from multiple traditions and techniques in order to best address your needs while improving your overall well-being and help you to heal and thrive on a deeper level. I believe that each of us possesses the strength and potential to work through life problems. I seek to help you to discover this potential and learn skills that will help you achieve your goals through empowering and providing you with conditions for personal growth.

 

The counseling process involves a collaborative relationship between us in an open environment where you are free to share your thoughts and feelings honestly and safely. Thus, your active participation and personal work outside of our sessions are essential for counseling to be effective and help you reach your goals. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

 

You are braver than you know! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step then I am here to support and empower you.

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Jordyn Hillary, LLMSW

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS and Priority Health (Grand Blanc & Telehealth Only)

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Starting your personal therapeutic journey can be scary and overwhelming. People start therapy for a wide variety of reasons and no one should be shamed or discouraged from seeking help from a professional. Therapy is one of the best investments you can make to yourself and for your overall health and wellness. Therapy can help you with emotional identification and emotional regulation, identifying personal roadblocks, tuning into your core belfies, building healthy ways to cope with stress or anxiety, processing traumatic life events, breaking unhealthy habits, building better personal and social boundaries and pinpoint personal triggers.

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Life is constantly bringing us an assortment of hardships. Throughout our lives, these challenges can cause us to deal with anxiety, stress, depression, suicidal ideations, addiction, and other negative personal challenges. It is of the utmost importance that my therapeutic approach be fitting for each of my clients and to not reflect a “one size fits all” approach. Everyone is different and unique and your therapeutic treatment plan we create in collaboration will reflect this. I utilize the Person-Centered Planning approach with all of my clients so each individual feels they have autonomy over their therapeutic journey and treatment. With emphasis on Person-Centered Planning, I also integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, the Transtheoretical Model (also known as the Stages of Change), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

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I graduated from Oakland University in 2018 with a B.A. in English and a minor concentration in Sociology. I obtained my Masters of Social Work in 2021 from the University of Michigan with a specialization in Interpersonal Practice and Treatment in Substance Use and Addiction. While my therapy career has just recently started, I have extensive direct care experience working with children and adolescents in various settings that has helped me build transferable skills that are benefiting me in this work. These settings include schools, in home care, outpatient therapy and residential care. I also have knowledge about the importance of trauma informed care which is also a big part of my practice. I obtained my Clinical Certified Trauma & Resilience Practitioner certificate through Starr Commonwealth in April of 2022 as well as my QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper program certificate in June of 2022.

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I live in Oxford with my two Cats, Bishop and Harriet and my Leopard Gecko Ramona. In my spare time, you can find me hanging out with friends and family, working out at my favorite fitness studio, hanging out on my back deck or staying in watching my favorite movies while snuggled up with my cats. I am a nerd about anything related to Harry Potter, True Crime, Documentaries, Cats, and good food. While I have my own troubles and life stressors, I strive to better myself in any capacity that I can so I can show up as the best version of myself every day. I can’t wait to hear from you so we can begin your healing journey. 

Jordyn
Erin

Erin Zeller, LMSW

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, United Healthcare (Novi & Telehealth Only)

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I'm so glad you are taking the first step in your journey toward healing by seeking therapy. The most important factor in predicting successful outcomes in therapy is the relationship you hold with your therapist. A strong therapeutic relationship will help you feel safe, motivated, and accepted. My authentic approach often includes using humor in order to break barriers. 

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Are you having a hard time coping with a loss or traumatic experience? Is your anxiety or depression disrupting your work or school, relationships, or free time? Are you feeling like a failure as a parent, partner, or professional? Wherever you are in your healing journey or phase in your life, you do not have to do it alone. Trauma can impact us far into adulthood & we often don't realize the connection to our current thoughts & emotions. Although you may be feeling hopeless about your future, working with a trusted, empathetic therapist can increase your sense of safety and motivation & help you to achieve your goals!

 

For the last 10 years, I have worked with children, adults, & families who have experienced trauma. I have supervised other therapists & provided reflective supervision. Additionally, I have been seeing clients working through various challenges in individual therapy. 

 

I utilize an eclectic approach to providing therapy services to children, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment therapy, EMDR, psychoeducation and body/mind work. I am skilled in treating symptoms related to trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, stress management, ADD/ADHD, depression, anger, adjustment issues, anxiety, communication challenges, behavioral challenges, mood disorders, bullying, parenting/ marriage concerns and social issues. 

 

I welcome all clients of diverse SOGIEs, cultures, and races.

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Chrisse
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Chrissie Jostock, MA, LPC

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, BCN, United Healthcare/Optum, and Priority Health (Grand Blanc & Telehealth Only)

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Making the decision to start therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Professional Counselor, I will work with you to understand the difficulties and struggles you face.  Together we help you gain tools to cope and balance life successfully, meeting your emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.

 

My specialty is working with populations, young and old, who are struggling, coping with, and managing life-threatening illnesses, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, divorce, disability, career transitions, LGBTQIA+, and other life transitions.  I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to suit your needs, otherwise known as Integrative therapy in addition to methods of counseling that stem from: Person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), and humanistic therapy. 

 

My husband, daughter and I reside in Clarkston, MI.  I love to be outside, swim, garden, organize, do mud-runs and I am a huge movie buff! 

 

I graduated in 2014 from Oakland University with my Masters Degree In Counseling, specializing in Child & Adolescent Therapy.  Since receiving my degree I have had the opportunity to practice in a wide variety of setting including: Non-profits specializing families fighting cancer, a Behavioral Health Center working closely with clients at risk or recovering from addiction, and a counseling telehealth platform working with clients from all over the world.  I also lecture and supervising counselors-in-training at Oakland University. 

 

"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it," wrote Helen Keller.   We encounter unforeseeable challenges in this life, and you may find yourself feeling hurt, defeated, lost and alone... professional counseling can help you understand that you are not alone.  Whether healing from your past, coping with situations and issues in the present, or letting go of fears of the future; I am here to listen, help and understand you as an individual, with care and without judgment.

Mary

Mary Gilbert, LMSW

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, United Healthcare, Out of Network (Telehealth & Midland)

 

If you are considering therapy, wondering if it will help you, wondering how to have a better life, consider what psychologist Carl Rogers said, "The good life is a process, not a state of being.  It is a direction, not a destination." We often need people to journey with us on this road to a better life.

 

This is my passion and my training. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University and after working in the mental health field, returned to Saginaw Valley State University to obtain a Master’s degree in Social Work. I have worked in community mental health, schools, and non-profit agencies.

 

My person-centered philosophy of therapy is a multi-faceted approach utilizing narrative therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mind-body techniques, emotionally focused therapy, motivational interviewing, strength-based, systems, and relational therapy techniques in a non-judgmental atmosphere to creatively address both the root causes and current symptoms of challenging life issues including depression, anxiety, anger, sexual health and education, gender and sexual identity and relationship enhancement and navigation with all ages through individual, family and couples therapy.

 

Some acronyms that I believe represent important aspects of life are DEI, SOGIE, LGBTQ. I strongly believe that building a trusting and nurturing therapy environment empowers clients to safely seek deeper self-reflection that promotes meaningful, positive personal transformation. Sometimes moving forward is as simple as deciding what's important and letting go of that which isn't. Finding meaning and purpose in life is often an unrecognized unmet need and traveling that journey with a therapist can provide greater life satisfaction.

 

When I'm not in my office, I like to spend time reading, gardening, making music, cooking, creating art, and walking two very goofy Doodles.

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Chavela
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Chavela Bryant, LPC

*Accepting BCBS, BCN, Priority Health (Novi & Telehealth Only)

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I have helped children, teens, individuals, families and couples in private practice, group and Child Advocacy Center settings to cope with trauma, loss, grief, depression and anxiety. 

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I believe an important predictor of successful outcomes in therapy is in the relationship you hold with your therapist. I use an authentic, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach to help you feel safe, empowered, and motivated. I walk alongside you with compassion and respect as you work to achieve your goals, strengthen connections, build hope, and increase confidence. The beach is my calm, safe place. Some of the things I enjoy are reading, traveling, laughing until I cry, and connecting with those I love. 

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Making the decision to start therapy may feel scary and overwhelming. As one who has experienced and healed from trauma, loss, and grief, I understand how every area of your life can be impacted by the pain, shame, and guilt of these experiences. I want to encourage you, help is available. You are not defined by your past or your current situation. Where you are today does not limit your future possibilities.

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 Hope, peace, & growth may seem far off. Remember, no matter how small or how big, every step forward is a step toward becoming a better you.

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Hannah

Hannah Collard, LMSW

*Accepting Aetna, BCBS, Priority Health, Blue Care Network (BCN), and United Healthcare (Novi & Telehealth Only)

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Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming and I want to provide you a safe space to talk.I aim to provide a warm and compassionate environment for individuals who need someone to listen. Sometimes life can be hard to navigate and I am here to walk by your side.

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My passion is helping those who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma improve their quality of life. Are you having trouble balancing work and family life? Are you feeling stuck in a rut? Are you questioning the choices you have made in life? Perhaps you are longing for healing from past hurts. If you don’t know what you are feeling, we can explore that too. Whatever it may be I hope we can process it together. Wherever you are at in life, my hope is that you will gain meaningful skills to navigate all the turns in your life. Come as you are.

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A bit about my background. I have over 10 years of working as a Clinical Social Worker. I utilize different evidenced based approaches in therapy. I have been told by others they experience a sense of calmness when in my presence. I have worked with a diverse population throughout my career in public service including state hospitals and veteran hospitals. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents and adults. My primary focus is working with adults currently. I have training in teaching DBT skills and EMDR. I graduated from the University of Michigan in 2009 with my Bachelors Degree in Psychology and earned my Masters of Social Work Degree from Eastern Michigan University in 2011. If you have any questions about specific therapy approaches, let’s talk and see if we are a good fit!

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Danielle Lied, LMSW

*Accepting BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, United Healthcare, Aetna (Grand Blanc & Telehealth)

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Are you or your child experiencing stress, struggling with relationships, or to cope with emotions and life events? I am so glad you are here! My goal as your therapist is to be empathetic, non-judgemental, and compassionate during our time together, allowing us to create an environment in which you feel safe, supported, and valued throughout the therapeutic process.

 

I will always utilize a trauma informed approach when working with you or your child. The therapeutic approaches that I incorporate most often are cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I also incorporate mindfulness and play therapy principles when working with children. My specialties include working with people of all ages who are experiencing challenges related to behavior, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, social skills deficits, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

 

I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from Michigan State University in 2012 and have 12 years of experience. I have worked as a School Social Worker for the past 10 years, and prior to that I worked as a children's therapist at a community mental health agency. 

 

I live in Owosso on 16 acres with my husband. When I’m not in the office, you’ll likely find me caring for my beloved animals. We have 2 horses, many chickens, 5 cats, and a dog who keep me very busy!  I also love to spend time outdoors gardening, with our horses, and taking our side by side out on trails. 

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Danielle

Tye Baker, LMSW

*Accepting BCBS. Priority Health, Aetna, United Healthcare, BCN are pending.

Novi & Telehealth

 

I aim to delve beyond the surface with you to further explore the complexities of life. I specialize in supporting individuals facing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, daily stressors, relationship challenges, grief, attachment styles, self-esteem, and work/life balance. As your therapist, I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to help you achieve personal growth and goals. I value empathetically processing the interconnected nature of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

 

I graduated from Wayne State University, with a master’s degree in clinical social work. I have twelve years of experience working with diverse populations and individuals seeking positive change. My employment history includes serving individuals, groups, and families in the criminal justice system, private practice, and state level psychiatric hospital settings.

 

If you are here, you are already in motion to creating a better you! My goal is to help you feel empowered, safe, and self-assured as you move forward on your path. I look forward to assisting you along your journey. Email to get started with a consultation.

 

In the words of Maya Angelou, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

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Tye

Areas of Expertise

Trauma

Trauma is a sensory experience and therefore therapeutic intervention needs to be sensory based. RFC uses sensory based interventions to address unresolved trauma or
stress.

Physical Abuse or Assault

Sexual Abuse or Assault

Witness to a Violent Crime

Domestic Violence (exposure to, victim of)

Emotional or Verbal Abuse
 
Medical Trauma

Childhood Neglect

Exposure to Terrorism or War

Traumatic Loss or Grief

Separation from Caregivers

Anxiety

Anxiety develops out of a need for protection and survival. At RFC, we view anxiety as one of many parts and work to understand the underlying need while increasing memories of positive, calming, relaxing feelings and experiences within the mind and body.

Social Anxiety

Generalized Anxiety

OCD

Panic Attacks

Intrusive Thoughts

 Depression

Persistent sadness and hopelessness, which may also be accompanied by chronic pain or digestive issues, can interfere with social relationships, work or school performance, and day to day tasks. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Mindfulness and Relaxation Skills training, we work together to increase hope for the future.

Major Depression

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Bipolar Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Sexual Wellness

Sexual wellness is essential to our overall mental health. Sex therapy can help individuals and couples work through sexual and intimacy concerns. 

Couples and Intimacy

Infidelity

Concerns about Sexual Orientation or Sexual Interests

Problematic Sexual Behavior

Gender Identification

Alternative Kink

Sex Work


 

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