Specialties: Couples therapy, life transitions, identity formation, relationships, anxiety and depression

Amanda is available to see new clients in person and virtually

Who am I as a therapist?

As a therapist it is my priority to create an environment where my clients feel comfortable to be themselves. I believe that the deepest growth and change comes from relationships and the experience of feeling understood by those around us. Providing a secure and trusting environment that allows my clients to feel heard, cared for, and understood is one of the best parts of this work.

When working with couples I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach that incorporates the structural and skills based theory of the Gottman Method with Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). By exploring areas including conflict resolution, communication skills, and increasing opportunities for quality time we are able to work on strengthening skills, and creating an environment that will allow us to explore the relational patterns and history impacting the relationship. IFS and ACT allows clients to explore the impact of existing patterns on the relationship, and develop greater understanding of the intention or need behind those patterns. I work with couples to explore the emotions and experiences contributing to the current state of the relationship and conflict without judgement. Creating greater understanding and shared values allows us to start new patterns that align with each partner’s values and experience a supportive and resilient relationship. I work best with couples that are prepared to work on communication and behavior patterns, while also being willing to  learn more about themselves and their partner on a deeper emotional level. 

When working with individuals, I work to understand my client and the environments surrounding them as much as possible. This includes exploring relationships with family and friends, daily routines, as well as early life experiences. I believe that a person and their life experience is often shaped by a number of factors and the better I can understand my client as a whole the better I can support them reaching their goals. Through my work with clients as an outpatient therapist and experience in a college counseling center, I have developed an approach to individual therapy that focuses on supporting clients with creating a deeper sense of self and a life that feels fulfilling, regulated, and safe. I  work best with clients that are looking to navigate through challenging life experiences such as big transitions and changes, identity transformations, anxiety, depression, or self-doubt. This healing work will be done through focusing on collaborative goal setting and addressing behavioral needs first, to then focus on the deeper emotional, relational, and sense of self work that will promote long-term growth, change, and happiness. I also enjoy working with clients that may struggle with executive functioning and ADHD. By integrating ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and CBT, I work together with clients to create a healing plan that fits  their individual needs and preferences.

Who am I as a person?

As a person, I am chatty and love the outdoors. Outside of work I am often gardening or hiking and enjoy spending time with my friends and family. As an ex-student athlete I am always finding new ways to get active and learn new skills, and am always competitive at game night. I look forward to my daily coffee, love a good mystery show, and enjoy baking. I value community and opportunities for relaxation and self-care. I have a background in anthropology and sport and performance psychology, that comes through in my utilization of person-centered and strengths based approaches, and my belief of the importance of community and its impact on our ability to succeed.

Credentials

• Master’s of Social Work (MSW) - Clinical concentration, University of Pennsylvania

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) - Pennsylvania

• Internal Family Systems (IFS) - IFS circle training in process

• Gottman Method - Level 1 training in process

• Various relevant trainings in couples therapy, relational therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Amanda is working under the supervision on Lauren Massi, LPC, CCTP

Fees

Individual session: $140

Couples session: $160