Understanding the layers of who you are
Navigate ADHD, past experiences, and identity with more kindness, patience, and tools
DC, Virginia, and Maryland | English & Spanish | Virtual & In-Person
ADHD Impacts All Parts of our Lives
Relationship and Social Strain
ADHD can affect how you connect with others, from keeping in touch to staying present in conversations. It can be discouraging when loved ones become frustrated with us, especially when we don't fully understand our own behaviors, let alone how to explain them. We might be sensitive to rejection or criticism, or find that our energy for relationships fluctuates. Sometimes we need more alone time but struggle to recognize or communicate that need until a problem comes up.
Executive Functioning & Task Paralysis
Sometimes you know what you need to do, but getting started or following through feels harder than it should, or even paralyzing. Maybe it's staring at the dreaded to-do list and freezing, or not even knowing where to begin. Or maybe you've gotten excited about a new "shiny" planner, system, or routine, only to lose motivation when it's time to put it into practice.
Shame & Imposter Syndrome
Living with ADHD can come with a lot of shame and self-criticism. Why can't I just do it? Am I lazy? Am I making excuses? It can be especially confusing when some things come easily while others feel incredibly difficult. You might even question whether your struggles are real. Over time, these experiences can affect your confidence, especially when you look back and realize how long you've struggled without the understanding and support you needed.
Overwhelm & Fatigue Fast
Living in the DMV, we're surrounded by constant pressure to perform, keep up, or stay ahead. Maybe on paper you're doing well, but internally you feel burned out. When we're tapped out, it can be harder to manage emotions, make decisions, or deal with the next thing on our plate. Sometimes we don't even recognize how exhausted we are until we've passed our tipping point, going between a full tank and an empty one, with little space in between.
Other Areas of My Work
Trauma and Past Experiences
Sometimes our past experiences continue to affect us in ways we don't fully understand. Painful or overwhelming experiences can shape how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us.
Maybe you find yourself shutting down or reacting to situations in ways that don't quite make sense to you. You might notice patterns in your relationships, struggle with trusting yourself or others, or hold onto beliefs about yourself that are hard to change.
Past relationships can also affect how safe we feel in current ones. We may want connection but struggle to trust others or let ourselves be vulnerable out of fear of getting hurt again.
Relationships and Identity
Our relationships, families, cultures, and life experiences can shape how we see ourselves and where we feel we belong.
Maybe you notice challenges in your relationships that are hard to change, struggle to set boundaries, or feel responsible for other people's feelings. You might have a hard time figuring out what you want or need, or feel selfish for putting your own needs ahead of those of your family or others.
You may also be navigating different cultural or family expectations, exploring your identity as an adoptee, or trying to make sense of where you fit in. Sometimes there are complicated feelings about family, belonging, or parts of your story that you don't fully understand.
How Therapy Can Help
Get unstuck with starting and following through
Reduce overwhelm and mental blocks
Understand and shift relationship patterns
Navigate identity and expectations with greater clarity
A Little About Me
Hi, I'm Andrea! My role is to walk alongside you as we make sense of your experiences, the stories you carry, and the different parts of who you are.
My hope is to make therapy feel less scary and stressful. Whether you come with clear goals or are still figuring things out, we'll work together to explore the pain and confusion, while also recognizing the successes, strengths, and parts of yourself that deserve more attention and appreciation.
Interested in Getting Started?
I offer a free 15–20 minute phone consultation so we can talk about what you're looking for and see if we'd be a good fit.
In-person appointments on Mondays in Dupont Circle, DC, and virtual therapy throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia.