“There is no understanding of addiction without understanding human pain...Of course addiction is a problem, but it’s also an attempt to solve a problem”. - Gabor Mate. 

Addiction is a complex system that is in large part related to reinforced habits that the individual repeatedly engages in despite the problematic effects on their life. It is oftentimes about seeking relief.  Our work heals addictive processes not on strategies of relief  but instead through real recovery. An understanding of the nature of addiction and sustaining a compassionate environment are the necessary elements to approach this recovery work.

I meet all individuals where they are, we create a plan of action informed by concrete behavioral changes we can track while uncovering the latent issues behind the addictive or impulsive behaviors. I support my clients’ goals of physical and emotional sobriety or moderation management. I offer practical approaches that enhance coping and relapse-prevention tools. 

I have been privileged to work alongside many others who sought guidance to make meaningful changes in their lives, who courageously work through their pain and struggles with the resolve to evolve into their better selves.

There is no way to know how to respond to a loved one's addiction unless you have received the education and support you need and deserve. 

I work interactively to support the family system, couples, and significant others affected by addiction and mental illness. I create a space for loved ones to be heard. I provide tools, offer useful information and resources to facilitate lasting positive changes that may improve the dynamic within the home and promote healing for everyone involved.

I have been fortunate in my personal and professional journey to have connected with those from different walks of life. I am enriched by the variety of diverse backgrounds I confront in my work, and see it as a duty to take a culturally mindful approach with all clients. 

Having been based in the heart of Brooklyn’s Midwood community for a portion of my career, I am especially attuned to the unique sensitivities of the Frum, Syrian and Orthodox Jewish communities. 

The alcoholic is wrapped around the bottle. The codependent is wrapped around the person.

Codependence, like addiction is a maladaptive way of coping with pain and discomfort.

Codependence creates a preoccupation with, over reliance of and intense relationship/attachment to other people and the externals as an avoidance tactic to skirt chronic discomfort, emotional pain, grief, shame, and possibly trauma.

 It is understood as a state of distress commonly linked to dysfunction in childhood.  Like addiction  it creates distressing and unstable relationships  both with others and with ourselves. Like addiction it touches the lives of everyone and has deleterious affects on loved ones.

Unlike many chemical addictions,  its presence is often difficult to pin point.  People often live their entire lives not realizing they suffer from it,  especially as we live in a society and culture that very much reinforces its presence.

It exists on a spectrum, creating both subtle and potentially devastating consequences for the people suffering from it and those who around them.  

Common symptoms of codependency include: 

Self worth/self esteem issues

Over reliance/dependence on loved one(s)

Obsessive thought patterns

Difficulty setting boundaries and tending to ones needs/desires

Anxiety/Depression

Emotional highs and lows. 

People pleasing behaviors

Perfectionism

Substance abuse/other compulsive behaviors

Codependence is a painful way of existing and I treat it with the same seriousness as I would any addiction, - thoroughly and holistically.