Caren Heilman

Grief is the natural response to loss, and everyone experiences it differently. Whether a loss is related to the death of a loved one or a pet, the loss of a relationship, job, way of life, or even a move, the impact can continue to impact us throughout our lifetime. Processing grief allows us to create new experiences and move forward in a healthy way, which requires time and work. Having support and professional guidance during these difficulties can make a significant difference.

Anxiety can affect children, adolescents, and adults, and it often interferes with daily activities. People with anxiety disorders frequently have intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. These feelings often worsen over time. If you find yourself avoiding places or situations to prevent feelings of anxiety and panic, professional support can help and give you the proper tools and skills to cope.

I help clients identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that negatively influence their behavior and emotions. When we don't change or replace these negative thoughts, it can be easy to spiral and worsen emotional problems, anxiety, and depression. My clients learn specific techniques or strategies that help them better control how they interpret and interact with their environments.

While CBT is one approach that I use, I also draw upon elements of other therapies to meet the needs of each individual. By integrating aspects of cognitive, behavioral, and psychodynamic techniques, I am better able to address each client's needs and goals. Integrative therapy is beneficial in treating many different psychological issues or mental health conditions that I treat, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and stress.

Attachment styles formed early in life continue to affect us throughout life. Attachment styles in adulthood are influenced by a variety of factors, including how parents and caregivers cared for us, but life experiences also come into play. I work with clients to find out how their upbringing influenced their attachment as well as how other relationships have impacted their attachment and the effects of this on their current behavior and relationships.