Learn About How Maureen Can Help Your Adolescent and Family In The Video Below
Maureen Specializes with Couples, Children, Adolescents, and their Families in Counseling in East Lyme, Connecticut
I am Maureen. I am a mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend and a social worker. In my free time, I enjoy walking, running, yoga, pickleball, reading, being at the beach and gardening. I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut and hold a CT License as a LMSW. I enjoy working with adolescents, tweens, children and families and have been working with these populations in a variety of roles over the last 20 years.
Areas I specialize in include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Self-esteem
- School avoidance
- Couples and relational dynamics
- Family issues and conflict
- Life events
- ADHD
- Suicidal ideation
- Anger management and emotional regulation
My most recent experience has been within the public schools.
Therefore, I am very familiar with school avoidance, anxiety, depression, LGTBQIA+, suicidal ideation, ADHD, Anger Management and family conflict. I have had the opportunity to assist youngsters and young adults cope with anxiety and grow into more confident individuals.
I have also worked with IEPs, 504s and other school related processes and could assist families in understanding their roles and resources with the school.
I love working with adolescents, teens, young adults, and couples in counseling.
Each young person brings such an individual set of strengths, needs and character traits. The most successful work begins where the client is. Many teens come to a therapeutic relationship with expectations that their problems can be solved quickly or that the therapist will have all the answers.
At the same time, they are striving for independence and want to be in control of their lives, choices and plans. It is at this beginning stage of treatment where I find it is important to find the tools and activities where the healing process can take place.
Creative, expressive outlets for stress for children and teens in therapy
For some this will be while taking a walk, or relaxing in yoga practice. For others this may be a more active interaction, such as throwing a football or dancing or even yet for others this could be finding an art project such as painting, drawing or making a craft.
This ‘something’ is not the same for any two individuals; and may change as the therapeutic work evolves. I have many experiences with individuals who have benefitted from both the active and more passive expressions during therapy.
Why I Love Being A Therapist
I enjoy the opportunity to be with a person on their journey to change. It is an honor when a person allows you to be the facilitator of their goals and treatment and to watch them progress to healthier living!
Why I Help with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches to work with clients. When you learn to understand and recognize the connections between your thoughts, emotions and behaviors you are able to make changes in each of these realms. The entire system can be altered by making a difference in one area. It can be a very powerful tool to change negative patterns.
My Favorite Quote
When there’s rain, look for Rainbows. It is important to find strengths and opportunities in difficult times. A rainbow is a symbol of brightness, beauty and hope. A rainbow can remind us that there is something good in a gloomy situation; sometimes you just need to find it.
My Favorite Thing To Do
On The Weekend On the weekends, you will most often find me moving. I love to go to yoga, take walks, enjoy a hike or sit on the beach with a good book (after I have moved around a bit)! Most times, I will connect with a friend to catch up and enjoy a laugh.
Favorite Anxiety Coping Skill
I believe in teaching your body how it feels to be tense and how it feels to relax. This practice, and you do need to practice, can be a powerful tool for those struggling with anxiety. Yoga and progressive relaxation can each be tools to teach this skill. I have a favorite script that invites you to ‘squeeze a lemon.’ A younger boy I was working with had a great deal of anxiety and anger. He followed along with the ‘lemons’ in his hands to tense and relax. When we finished, he said that he wanted to repeat that segment of the relaxation and ‘squeeze a dumpster.’ For this particular child, he needed to use his whole torso to tense and relax- not just his hands! We continued this practice with the dumpster and he learned how to ease his anxiety and face his challenges.
One Fun Fact About Me
I love ice cream! When I am traveling to a new place, I will research the favorite ice cream locations for that city and make sure that I make a stop when I am there. I typically like to choose a small, independent shop that makes their ice cream fresh. They have the most unique flavors, and they are oh, so good!! Most recently, I was at an ice cream shop that made ‘Sweet Buttered Corn’ from the local crop…. That was interesting!
About School Avoidance
Couples Therapy with Maureen
Are you and your partner facing challenges in your relationship?
Do you want to build a strong and loving bond that stands the test of time? I am a passionate, experienced, and dedicated Gottman Level Two Certified Marriage Therapist. Also, I have extensive experience in helping couples navigate the complexities of their relationships.
With a deep-rooted belief in the power of love and commitment, I have made it my life’s mission to assist couples in overcoming obstacles, fostering intimacy, and building lasting connections. As a Gottman Level Two Certified Marriage Therapist, I have honed my skills in the renowned Gottman Method, a research-based approach that has proven effective in transforming relationships worldwide.
Client Testimonial: “I have been extremely happy with Maureen as my therapist. The experience has been helpful and productive. She is easy to talk to. I also appreciate your reminders with text and your prompt emails with invoices.” – October 2023
My Expertise with Couples Counseling:
I enjoy working with couples of all backgrounds and orientations, offering a safe and non-judgmental space for open communication and exploration. Whether you are newlyweds, a long-term partnership, or facing significant life transitions, I am here to guide you through the journey of improving your playfulness, communication skills, trust, connection, and understanding.
Why Choose Gottman Therapy?
Gottman Therapy is unique in its evidence-based approach to couples counseling. The method is founded on decades of groundbreaking research conducted by Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Gottman, renowned clinical psychologists and relationship experts. Their research has identified key factors that contribute to both successful and struggling relationships, allowing therapists like myself to provide targeted exercises, homework assignments, and interventions that have you reach your goals.
What Sets Me Apart:
As a Gottman Level Two Certified Marriage Therapist, I bring a wealth of knowledge and specialized training to every counseling session. I believe that fostering a strong therapeutic alliance with each couple is essential to achieving positive outcomes. My compassionate and empathetic approach ensures that you and your partner feel heard, understood, valued, and supported throughout the therapeutic process.
What to Expect:
During our sessions, we will work collaboratively to uncover underlying issues, develop effective communication strategies, and foster emotional intimacy. I utilize proven Gottman interventions to address various aspects of your relationship, including managing conflicts, rebuilding trust, and nurturing affection and admiration.
Begin Your Journey Towards a Fulfilling Relationship:
When you are fighting, it will only get worse without professional help. Don’t wait any longer to invest in the health and happiness of your relationship. Take the first step towards a more fulfilling connection by reaching out to schedule a session with me today. Together, we will embark on a journey of growth and transformation, guided by the principles of Gottman Therapy.
Remember, love is worth fighting for, and with the right support, your relationship can thrive. I am here to be your ally, providing the tools and insights needed to create lasting meaningful connection, marital harmony and happiness.
