About Us
Pioneer Valley Mental Health provides psychotherapy services in Western Massachusetts. We offer individualized treatment for mental and behavioral health needs as well as therapy for wellness.
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This practice is a safe and inclusive space for everyone. We take a casual and conversational approach to therapy sessions because we want you to be yourself. Use humor, curse a little, or teach us about what's important to you. We're here to listen to you and support your unique goals. Let's start a conversation and work together to make positive changes in your life.
Our approach to care
A zoom-out approach
When I meet with someone, my initial goal is to understand who you are as a person and all the systems in your life. I believe that there's not just one explanation for our thought process or perspective, but rather a collection of experiences that create our perspectives. Oftentimes, we are very focused on what's directly in front of us, addressing the symptoms and not the underlying issues. In our therapy sessions, we address both. When we meet, our conversations often start with what is going on in your life right now. Once we understand your current thought processes, we zoom out and explore larger themes, bigger perspectives, and how they connect.
Trauma-informed
care
Many times, a major contributing factor to our thoughts, feelings, and perspectives is trauma we've experienced in the past. All trauma is valid, as traumatic experiences are defined by how a person is affected. Therapy can't change what has happened to you, but it can reduce the power it holds over you. With our trauma-informed approach, we will never ask you to talk about anything before you’re ready. Our initial goal with trauma is to build the strength and resilience to face it.
No such thing as
a bad feeling
It’s a normal human experience to feel sad, angry, or hurt, but often we experience guilt with these feelings. Your feelings are valid and I understand that there are times when it’s appropriate to feel sad, angry, or hurt. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, we explore the thoughts that caused those feelings. Our thoughts are based on our perspectives, which are influenced by our past experiences, so they aren’t always accurate. By looking at fresh perspectives, we can change the way we feel by changing the way we think.