Parenting Therapists in Acton, MA
Megan Elizabeth Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
My passion and dedication to the work is evident upon our first meeting. My positive energy stems from the belief that change is possible and I come to restore hope. I provide an open, compassionate and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their past and present lives. Collaboratively, we work together, at your pace, to obtain the goals that you identify. I believe that parenting is a journey that we undertake without a map and, at times, along the way, we all get lost. And, together, we can create a new path that feels good to you.
Are you exhausted by chronic anxiety? Does trying to prevent worst-case scenarios or running from "failure" consume your life? You are used to doing everything well, but now it feels impossible keep all the balls in the air. Let’s work together to help you gain clarity in work and as a parent, improve communication, decrease self-criticism so you can actually feel content, engaged and connected in your life. Getting more support now can be an important step in the path of a life-changing shift in your relationship with work, perfectionism & self-compassion.
Are you exhausted by chronic anxiety? Does trying to prevent worst-case scenarios or running from "failure" consume your life? You are used to doing everything well, but now it feels impossible keep all the balls in the air. Let’s work together to help you gain clarity in work and as a parent, improve communication, decrease self-criticism so you can actually feel content, engaged and connected in your life. Getting more support now can be an important step in the path of a life-changing shift in your relationship with work, perfectionism & self-compassion.
Specialties are relationship issues, anxiety, depression, cancer diagnosis, OCD,, parenting and adolescent issues.
Sally Sacks is a seasoned psychotherapist with years of experience. She takes an eclectic approach to counseling. "Use what works, and have a large bag of tricks!" Sally holds a Master's degree in Education/Psychology, and a Richard Bandler certification in neurolingiustic programming (NLP). Sally is trained in hypnosis, and energy therapies. All of these skills help to teach people how to communicate effectively, and therefore improve all relationships.
Specialties are relationship issues, anxiety, depression, cancer diagnosis, OCD,, parenting and adolescent issues.
Sally Sacks is a seasoned psychotherapist with years of experience. She takes an eclectic approach to counseling. "Use what works, and have a large bag of tricks!" Sally holds a Master's degree in Education/Psychology, and a Richard Bandler certification in neurolingiustic programming (NLP). Sally is trained in hypnosis, and energy therapies. All of these skills help to teach people how to communicate effectively, and therefore improve all relationships.
I have written several books in psychology and religion and have written two weekly blogs for Psychology Today on parenting and spirituality.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients to take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
I have written several books in psychology and religion and have written two weekly blogs for Psychology Today on parenting and spirituality.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients to take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
I also provide parent and educator consultation, as well as Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
You are only as happy as your unhappiest child. If your child's anxiety, ADHD, or disruptive behaviors are causing your family unnecessary stress, I can help. In working with me, you and your child will build skills and learn specific tools to manage these symptoms through a variety of techniques including mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy, social thinking strategies, and/or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). At this time, I am offering in-person sessions and teletherapy (e.g., HIPPA-compliant video conferencing) in North Dakota, and teletherapy exclusively to Massachusetts residents.
I also provide parent and educator consultation, as well as Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
You are only as happy as your unhappiest child. If your child's anxiety, ADHD, or disruptive behaviors are causing your family unnecessary stress, I can help. In working with me, you and your child will build skills and learn specific tools to manage these symptoms through a variety of techniques including mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy, social thinking strategies, and/or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). At this time, I am offering in-person sessions and teletherapy (e.g., HIPPA-compliant video conferencing) in North Dakota, and teletherapy exclusively to Massachusetts residents.
Christine Musello, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? -PLAY THERAPY Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? -PLAY THERAPY Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
Jamie Chiarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
Elise Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer parent consultation, groups and coaching and work to raise awareness of the PDA profile.
I’ve helped many adults and children seeking support during times of transition, emotional confusion or family stress. Practice members are looking to understand themselves, improve relationships and their parenting. Some struggle to explain themselves clearly and effectively. Many of my clients are seeking a PDA affirming and trained practitioner.
I offer parent consultation, groups and coaching and work to raise awareness of the PDA profile.
I’ve helped many adults and children seeking support during times of transition, emotional confusion or family stress. Practice members are looking to understand themselves, improve relationships and their parenting. Some struggle to explain themselves clearly and effectively. Many of my clients are seeking a PDA affirming and trained practitioner.
I offer diverse services: individual therapy, parent coaching, and consults.
Whether you're an adolescent, a young adult, or an adult grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, and daily stressors, my goal is to be your unwavering support. If you've found that the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, or the relentless strain of daily stressors is affecting your life, then I'm here to offer a helping hand. I'm committed to helping you identify and achieve your goals, guiding you as you navigate and manage these symptoms or stressors. Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where you can regain control over your life, find peace amidst the chaos, and rediscover your sense of balance.
I offer diverse services: individual therapy, parent coaching, and consults.
Whether you're an adolescent, a young adult, or an adult grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, and daily stressors, my goal is to be your unwavering support. If you've found that the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, or the relentless strain of daily stressors is affecting your life, then I'm here to offer a helping hand. I'm committed to helping you identify and achieve your goals, guiding you as you navigate and manage these symptoms or stressors. Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where you can regain control over your life, find peace amidst the chaos, and rediscover your sense of balance.
Help yourself or your child feel more confident in their ability to face life's challenges or help yourself feel more confident in your role as a parent/guardian.
Therapy begins with understanding. I take the time to listen deeply to your concerns, experiences, and aspirations. Whether you are a child struggling with school anxiety, a teen navigating social pressures, an adult managing the complexities of life, or a parent desiring to best support your child, your story is at the heart of our work together. Collaboration is key; we will work as a team to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, uncovering patterns that may be contributing to your current difficulties. We will also work to build healthy coping skills so that you feel more in control of your life.
Help yourself or your child feel more confident in their ability to face life's challenges or help yourself feel more confident in your role as a parent/guardian.
Therapy begins with understanding. I take the time to listen deeply to your concerns, experiences, and aspirations. Whether you are a child struggling with school anxiety, a teen navigating social pressures, an adult managing the complexities of life, or a parent desiring to best support your child, your story is at the heart of our work together. Collaboration is key; we will work as a team to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, uncovering patterns that may be contributing to your current difficulties. We will also work to build healthy coping skills so that you feel more in control of your life.
15 Second Videos
Sheryl (Sherree) Foye
Elise Jacobson
Fred Gerhard
Eric Schlesinger
It is as though a “What if…” reel is running in your mind. You are so exhausted by the second (third and fourth!) guessing of your choices and your interactions with others. Dealing with your anxiety is taking up so much energy. Sometimes you try to avoid the things or situations that are causing your anxiety. Other times you might check in with a friend, partner or parent asking, “Do you think what I did was okay?” Still other times you imagine worse-case scenarios playing out and strategize how you can prevent them. But the worry comes back.
It is as though a “What if…” reel is running in your mind. You are so exhausted by the second (third and fourth!) guessing of your choices and your interactions with others. Dealing with your anxiety is taking up so much energy. Sometimes you try to avoid the things or situations that are causing your anxiety. Other times you might check in with a friend, partner or parent asking, “Do you think what I did was okay?” Still other times you imagine worse-case scenarios playing out and strategize how you can prevent them. But the worry comes back.
I have created a 24 week family coaching program where I blend both coaching and therapy as I work with both parent(s), and kids/teens simultaneously in creating a vision for themselves and their family.
I provide transformational coaching for families who are experiencing stress and overwhelm, or challenges in their communication and/or in their family relationships. My unique family coaching program is ideal families with children of all ages, who may be dealing with learning/ behavior challenges, social or emotional challenges, or transitions/changes happening within the family. I provide a combination of counseling and coaching to help families to heal, and to support both individual family members and the family as a whole to create a vision of the life they would love!
I have created a 24 week family coaching program where I blend both coaching and therapy as I work with both parent(s), and kids/teens simultaneously in creating a vision for themselves and their family.
I provide transformational coaching for families who are experiencing stress and overwhelm, or challenges in their communication and/or in their family relationships. My unique family coaching program is ideal families with children of all ages, who may be dealing with learning/ behavior challenges, social or emotional challenges, or transitions/changes happening within the family. I provide a combination of counseling and coaching to help families to heal, and to support both individual family members and the family as a whole to create a vision of the life they would love!
I became a marriage counselor because I am pro-marriage & pro-family. I specialize in repairing marriages in crisis. I help people identify their relationship strengths and challenges and I give them the tools to restore their emotional connection. For couples on the brink of divorce, I offer the cutting-edge option of Discernment Counseling. This brief process helps couples develop clarity and confidence about how to move forward. I work with adults to solve personal, psychological, & relational issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Life Transition Issues, Grief Recovery, Parenting through Divorce and Divorce Recovery.
I became a marriage counselor because I am pro-marriage & pro-family. I specialize in repairing marriages in crisis. I help people identify their relationship strengths and challenges and I give them the tools to restore their emotional connection. For couples on the brink of divorce, I offer the cutting-edge option of Discernment Counseling. This brief process helps couples develop clarity and confidence about how to move forward. I work with adults to solve personal, psychological, & relational issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Life Transition Issues, Grief Recovery, Parenting through Divorce and Divorce Recovery.
Sheila Marie Tucke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
I have had a private therapy practice in Andover and Westford, Ma. for nearly 30 years. During this time, I have worked with those struggling with a variety of concerns including relationships, parenting, identity, work and careers, depression, anxiety, trauma, school and education, gender, and cultures. Generally, the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work come to my office in some sort of pain or discomfort as they move back and forth between their real and ideal lives.The conversations we have shed light on what is happening and to try to help reduce feelings of pain and distress.
I have had a private therapy practice in Andover and Westford, Ma. for nearly 30 years. During this time, I have worked with those struggling with a variety of concerns including relationships, parenting, identity, work and careers, depression, anxiety, trauma, school and education, gender, and cultures. Generally, the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work come to my office in some sort of pain or discomfort as they move back and forth between their real and ideal lives.The conversations we have shed light on what is happening and to try to help reduce feelings of pain and distress.
With 25 years experience, I have worked in a variety of settings and have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, parenting issues, relationship conflict, loss, adjustment, and life’s transitions.
Have you ever imagined what your life would be like and wonder how it is you ended up here? We all experience hardships and setbacks in life, especially during the most unexpected or worst of times. With all of the demands of today's world, it is difficult to be the perfect spouse, parent, employee, or child. My goal is to provide you with tools and insight so that you may live a more fulfilling, balanced and healthy life. Together we will find ways to overcome obstacles in your way whether they are big or small, old or recent so that you can be the become the person you believe you can be.
With 25 years experience, I have worked in a variety of settings and have experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, parenting issues, relationship conflict, loss, adjustment, and life’s transitions.
Have you ever imagined what your life would be like and wonder how it is you ended up here? We all experience hardships and setbacks in life, especially during the most unexpected or worst of times. With all of the demands of today's world, it is difficult to be the perfect spouse, parent, employee, or child. My goal is to provide you with tools and insight so that you may live a more fulfilling, balanced and healthy life. Together we will find ways to overcome obstacles in your way whether they are big or small, old or recent so that you can be the become the person you believe you can be.
I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to clarify goals, work more effectively with challenging emotions, and, using Mary Oliver's eloquent words, help them answer the question "what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life." I use strength-based approaches to help clients set and achieve goals and boost happiness. Having experience as a school-based therapist and as a parent, I am helpful as a parent coach/mentor/therapist and enjoy working with teens regarding school-related challenges.
I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to clarify goals, work more effectively with challenging emotions, and, using Mary Oliver's eloquent words, help them answer the question "what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life." I use strength-based approaches to help clients set and achieve goals and boost happiness. Having experience as a school-based therapist and as a parent, I am helpful as a parent coach/mentor/therapist and enjoy working with teens regarding school-related challenges.
Are you struggling with a narcissistic parent, spouse, or boss? You'll learn how to handle this painful relationship in the right way for you.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. I’m a psychologist with 30 years’ experience. I help children, teens, and adults tackle anxiety: generalized anxiety (constant worry), panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and social anxiety. You'll learn how anxiety works, and we'll develop the treatment plan that's right for you or your child, based on CBT, in person exposure therapy for OCD, or parent coaching. Clinical Hypnosis is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety, pain, and managing habits such as smoking/vaping and dealing with difficult issues from the past.
Are you struggling with a narcissistic parent, spouse, or boss? You'll learn how to handle this painful relationship in the right way for you.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. I’m a psychologist with 30 years’ experience. I help children, teens, and adults tackle anxiety: generalized anxiety (constant worry), panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and social anxiety. You'll learn how anxiety works, and we'll develop the treatment plan that's right for you or your child, based on CBT, in person exposure therapy for OCD, or parent coaching. Clinical Hypnosis is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety, pain, and managing habits such as smoking/vaping and dealing with difficult issues from the past.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
Katherine Arno
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in education, where I developed skills helping parents manage the stress of parenting, including parenting special needs children (autism and ADHD).
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others", and that idea can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and/or family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever your issue might be...if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved work-life balance, we can find solutions together.
I have experience in education, where I developed skills helping parents manage the stress of parenting, including parenting special needs children (autism and ADHD).
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others", and that idea can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and/or family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever your issue might be...if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved work-life balance, we can find solutions together.
See more therapy options for Acton
Parenting Therapists
What does therapy for parenting look like?
Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.
When should a parent seek therapy?
When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.
How long does therapy take for parenting problems?
Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.
Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?
Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.