My Therapeutic Approach:

Integrating CBT and Family Systems Theory

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a practical, evidence-based approach that explores the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT helps you identify unhelpful thinking patterns—like catastrophizing about the future or all-or-nothing thinking—and replace them with more balanced, realistic perspectives. Through CBT, you'll develop concrete skills to manage anxiety, challenge self-doubt, and respond to stress in healthier ways.

Family Systems Theory recognizes that we don't exist in isolation. We're shaped by our family relationships, roles, and patterns—both past and present. This approach examines how family dynamics, communication styles, expectations, and unspoken rules influence who we are and how we navigate the world. Even as adults, these family patterns continue to affect our decisions, relationships, and sense of self.

The Powerful Intersection

When facing major life transitions, both our internal thought patterns and our family systems are activated. This is where integrating CBT and Family Systems Theory becomes particularly powerful.

Matriculating to College

You might experience anxiety about leaving home (CBT addresses the worried thoughts), while also navigating family expectations about success, independence, or staying connected (Family Systems explores these dynamics). Together, we'll work on managing your internal stress while understanding how family roles—like being "the responsible one" or "the first to go to college"—shape your experience.

Entering the Working World

Negative self-talk about competence or imposter syndrome (CBT territory) often intersects with family messages about career, success, or what it means to be an adult (Family Systems territory). We'll challenge unhelpful beliefs while examining how family values and patterns influence your professional identity.

Marriage/Parenthood

CBT helps you recognize and shift communication patterns and conflict responses, while Family Systems Theory illuminates how each partner brings their family-of-origin patterns into the relationship. Understanding these inherited dynamics—around conflict, intimacy, money, or roles—helps couples build their own healthy system. New parents often struggle with anxious thoughts about doing things "right" (CBT) while simultaneously grappling with how they were parented and what they want to replicate or change (Family Systems). This integration helps you parent intentionally rather than reactively.

Grief and Loss

CBT provides tools for managing overwhelming emotions and challenging thoughts like "I should be over this by now." Family Systems Theory helps you understand how your family processes grief, what roles you're expected to play, and how loss shifts family dynamics. Together, these approaches support both individual healing and family adjustment.

Why This Integration Matters

Life transitions don't just require new skills—they often trigger old patterns. By combining CBT's practical tools with Family Systems' deeper understanding of relational patterns, you gain both immediate coping strategies and lasting insight. You'll learn to manage your thoughts and feelings while also understanding the larger context that shapes them.