Jen Kress PsyD

Relationships are part of our evolutionary needs. Unfortunately, we're not very well trained in how to have healthy, fulfilling relationships. I often work with clients to understand how their relationship history impacted their expectations and behaviors in their current relationships. Understanding where we came from gives a map of where to go. You don't have to spend your life recreating old dynamics and reliving the same problems over and over.

I enjoy working with people who are adding a family member. Pregnancy and the first year postpartum are unique times during which we are, in some ways, more vulnerable than ever, but also more open to change and healing. Postpartum issues are highly treatable, and I love doing this type of work.

During my graduate training, I trained for four years in settings in which complex or acute trauma were a primary presenting issue, and I completed my doctoral paper on relational treatment of childhood trauma. Trauma is an area of work about which I'm really passionate. I've seen many clients gain new insight and freedom from old wounds and old patterns. It's remarkable to be a part of this kind of change.

I utilize a phase-based approach to treating people with histories of chronic trauma. This includes development and utilization of coping skills, as well as processing the emotional, behavioral, and physiological impacts of trauma. This type of treatment can lead to lasting and profound change.

I'm of the opinion that all healing happens in relationships; in the relationship with the therapist, but also in the client's relationship with themselves. In relational therapy, we explore how the client treats themselves, and how to make changes in that relationship and in other important relationships in their lives.

Psychodynamic theory assumes that we're shaped by our past experiences, and particularly by childhood relationships. In therapy, I use this method to explore with a client how they came to be the way they are. This provides opportunities for self-compassion, but it also shows us what changes need to be made in order for the future to be different than what they have experienced in the past.

In graduate school, I trained for four years in settings in which trauma was a primary presenting issue, and I wrote my doctoral paper on relational treatment of complex trauma. I've seen many clients face down old wounds, and emerge more free, more confident, and more at peace. It's remarkable work to be a part of.