Therapy for Adults: Anxiety, Burnout, and Old Patterns

Many people come to me when something that used to work…stops working. The childhood habit of taking care of everyone else turns into burnout. A fear that once kept you safe now keeps your life small. A free-spirited way of living hits a wall when a partner, kids, or a new job enter the picture.

What I help with

  • Anxiety and phobias

  • Burnout and chronic over-functioning

  • Patterns from your family of origin, such as caretaking, people-pleasing, and codependency

  • Life transitions, such as becoming a parent or a change in a relationship

  • Feeling stuck in a loop you can see but can’t break

How I work
We start by understanding. Through an attachment lens, we look at what your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors once did for you, and what they cost you now. Then we use ACT to practice something different: making room for hard feelings and taking steps toward what matters to you. For phobias and anxiety, that can include gradual exposure work, at your pace, when it fits. I’m also direct. I’ll say the hard thing kindly, like a good grandparent.

Who I work with
Adults of all ages and backgrounds, including elders. If you’ve always felt a bit like an outsider, including if you’re neurodivergent or queer, you’re welcome here.

What to expect
Sessions are by telehealth from anywhere in California. Sessions are $150 and last 50 minutes. CenCal members in Santa Barbara and SLO counties can see me in-network. I can provide a superbill for other plans.

Start with a free 15-minute phone consultation.

FAQ

  • What’s the difference between psychodynamic therapy and ACT?

    • Psychodynamic work explores where patterns come from. ACT helps you practice responding to it differently. I use both.

  • How long does therapy take?

    • It depends on what you’re working on. We’ll check in regularly on how it’s going.

  • Do you prescribe medication?

    • No. With your consent, I’m happy to coordinate with your doctor or prescriber.