It takes courage to face life’s problems, and I know that it can be challenging to reach out for help. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere that will make coming to counseling easier. I am confident that by working together, we will see positive change and growth in your life and within your relationships.
As a psychologist I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, as well as other mental health disorders. However, I take a relational perspective and don’t define people by symptoms they may be experiencing. I believe it is important to address the symptoms and to take a look at your broader context.
Relationships
I specialize in helping folks improve their relationships. Stress, anxiety, depression, illness, and/or infidelity often emerge from or contribute to relational difficulties. Mental health and relationships are closely interconnected. Even positive aspects of life, such as parenthood, education, and work can be obstacles to finding and maintaining close connection with others. If you have drifted into being “roommates” with your partner, I can help you rediscover friendship and intimacy. I can help you rebuild trust, find better work-life balance, learn to communicate more effectively, or get a handle on the anxiety or anger that hangs over everything you want to accomplish.
Young Adults
I have extensive experience working with college age young adults. I have worked in three different university counseling centers providing individual, group, and couple therapy. I also work as a professor–which gives me a unique perspective on the college experience. I can help you learn to manage your time and stress, thrive socially, identify career goals, and learn to effectively navigate conflict with your family, roommates, professors/bosses and others. I can coach you on adapting to higher education with a learning disorder and how to navigate accommodations at school. Together we can successfully reduce your symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenge.
Men’s Issues
One of my primary areas of expertise is working with men. I can help you tackle issues, such as work stress, fatherhood, sex, depression, and anger. In this work I take more of a coaching role, help you set goals, sort out your thoughts and feelings, and learn to be more intentional instead of reacting to events.
Psychological Evaluations
The purpose of a psychological evaluation is to provide accurate knowledge of your unique profile of strengths and weaknesses as well as to provide specific recommendations relevant to your current situation. The evaluation may include measures of academic functioning, mental wellness, personality structure, and interpersonal dynamics. The evaluation can provide information about how you learn and what may be limiting your functioning academically, socially, emotionally, or behaviorally. Once your profile is understood, recommendations can be made for direct interventions, accommodations, and various supports. The assessment process may also involve clarifying a diagnosis and prognosis. You will receive both verbal and written feedback. The written report can be used in academic settings to establish individual education plans, accommodations, and to effectively advocate for needed supports.
*I typically work with age 16 and above
Ken Parnell, PhD 