Most people aren’t just dealing with depression or anxiety in isolation. In reality, we’re all tangled up in a web of relationships, and what we feel or do often stems from a mix of past experiences, current needs, and the hopes and beliefs we hold about the future. That’s why I focus on supporting people with complex and often unmet emotional needs.
When someone is in intense emotional distress, struggles tend to show up in four key areas: identity, self-direction, empathy, and intimacy. For instance, people might have a hard time setting healthy boundaries, feel stuck in co-dependent dynamics, or wrestle with self-worth. Emotionally, they might swing from feeling too much too fast to feeling numb for long stretches. And for many, setting meaningful life goals can feel nearly impossible—they don’t quite feel like the authors of their own lives.
Relationships can also be a minefield. Forming and maintaining close connections might be incredibly challenging. It can be tough to understand others’ perspectives, imagine their intentions, or recognize how one’s own behavior impacts both friends and strangers. Intimacy often takes a hit—some avoid romantic or emotional closeness altogether, while others withdraw from social contact entirely. Relationships may feel shallow or fragile, and the ability to truly connect may not have had the chance to fully develop. Some people experience separation insecurity—a deep fear of being alone, often tied to low confidence in their ability to care for themselves emotionally or physically.
Unmet emotional needs—especially when they’re chronic—can wreak havoc not just on someone’s internal world, but on the lives of those around them. Certain personality traits can become problematic to varying degrees, and in some cases, this leads to serious disruptions in daily life—what we sometimes call a personality disorder. For some, the impact is mild and manageable. For others, it can deeply affect their work, relationships, and sense of self.
But here’s the good news: change is possible. Therapy with me is a collaborative partnership. Together, we can build the foundation for a steadier, more grounded sense of self. We’ll work on developing the ability to experience and regulate a full range of emotions, set realistic goals that match your strengths, and nurture positive, consistent self-esteem. Even in the face of distress, it’s possible to find meaning in your relationships, hold healthy boundaries, and better understand yourself and others. And even in disagreement, you can learn to stay open to cooperation, flexibility, and mutual respect.
Find more information about my approach to therapy here.