Bernadette Mulvenna (She/Her)

CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, it focuses on the idea that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected. Changing negative thought patterns and dysfunctional behaviors can elevate client(s) distress. I have found CBT to be action and goal oriented using numerous techniques. I have been working with this therapeutic model for over 25 years, successfully.

Couples Counseling can entail married and/or committed relationships. In session, I will look at the dynamics of behavior(s) which are causing stress and unhappiness on the relationship. Being the neutral guide, without judgement, I use various tools and techniques to build stronger communication, listening , compromising, acceptance and trust in a safe and supportive environment. I hope for each couple to create smarter goals for resolving their conflicts and making wiser decisions.

Solution Focused therapy is an effective positive problem -solving technique, it focuses on goals and solutions. While it is goal driven, solutions are clear and realistic. I have found many times an issue(s) once identified, can be easily and effectively resolved.

As a professional, caring, and sensitive therapist, I value the importance of being aware of the LBGTQIA+ developmental and social lifestyles. I work successfully with individuals, couples and families with issues such as: Gender Roles Gender Identity Relational Issues Sexual Issues Same-Sex Parenting; including Co-Parenting and Blended Families

I work on various Relationship Issues in many of my sessions. I observe a lot of Issues related to scenarios such as: A conflicted issue related to either a marital spouse or an intimate partner. A relational problem regarding parents or in-laws. A relational disruption within the family unit causing separation and/or divorce. A stressful serious life event that can affect and cause the breakdown of a family system.

I believe the measure of a client's Self Esteem is important in all of my clients. I'm always watchful of how much they value, accept and like who they truly are. Having High Self Esteem represents truly feeling good about themselves and others. Knowing and admiring their individual strengths and trusting their abilities. Having Low Self Esteem represents feeling a lot of Self Doubt about their Self-Worth. Focusing more on their personal Flaws and Shortcomings - New Good Enough.

I believe the measure of a client's Self Esteem is important in all of my clients. I'm always watchful of how much they value, accept and like who they truly are. Having High Self Esteem represents truly feeling good about themselves and others. Knowing and admiring their individual strengths and trusting their abilities. Having Low Self Esteem represents feeling a lot of Self Doubt about their Self-Worth. Focusing more on their personal Flaws and Shortcomings - Never Good Enough.

I believe the measure of a client's Self Esteem is important in all of my clients. I'm always watchful of how much they value, accept and like who they truly are. Having High Self Esteem represents truly feeling good about themselves and others. Knowing and admiring their individual strengths and trusting their abilities. Having Low Self Esteem can represent feeling a lot of Self Doubt about their Self-Worth. Focusing more on their personal Flaws and Shortcomings .

CBT challenges how you choose to think, feel and act regarding many problems in a client's life. In a rather brief period of time mental health concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Stress, Body and Food Issues can be successfully addressed. My approach is to also allow my client to become aware and change whatever Distorted Cognitive Thought process may be holding them back from living their true Self.

At times, I will be presented with a client who is looking for brief and immediate therapy to help for a solution to a particular problem, such as an incident of Anxiety or Depression. SFBT is an excellent approach because it's short term and only focuses on the present and future, rather than the client's past. This therapy requires being concise and clear in creating solid solutions. The "Miracle Question" technique of asking "What If.." is one of the most useful tools I employ.