At Focal Point Psychotherapy, we provide compassionate, evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, performance anxiety, life transitions, and difficulties with motivation or direction. Our practice is designed to meet young people where they are—whether they're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their next step. We believe therapy should be pragmatic and goal-directed aiming to improve the overall quality of the individual’s life.
At the heart of our practice is a commitment to tailoring therapy to each individual’s unique stage of development and life challenges. We draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet clients where they are, adapting our work to align with their personal growth needs.
We believe that meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic alliance—one built on trust, collaboration, and empathy. Our goal is to create a supportive, relaxed, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and goals at their own pace.
We are especially attuned to the distinct developmental experiences of young people and understand that each person arrives in therapy with a different level of readiness for change. Recognizing both the developmental context and a client’s readiness is essential to supporting progress and guiding the therapeutic journey effectively. Lastly, when appropriate we are available to work collaboratively with all stakeholders in the individual’s life.
We specialize in using a range of therapeutic approaches tailored specifically to the individual:
In addition to individual therapy, Focal Point Psychotherapy offers structured social skills groups for adolescents with social skills deficits. Led by licensed psychologists, these in-person groups provide a safe, supportive setting where participants can build confidence, strengthen communication, and practice social interaction with peers.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, goal-focused approach to therapy that helps people understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors allowing them to handle both daily and significant challenges more effectively; i’s like learning mental habits that support a healthier, more confident mindset!
Sometimes, we get stuck in negative thought patterns—like assuming the worst, being too hard on ourselves, or seeing situations as all-or-nothing. These thoughts can make us feel anxious, sad, or unmotivated, and can affect how we act.
CBT helps people recognize unhelpful thoughts, learn how those thoughts affect their emotions and actions, practice more balanced, realistic thinking, and try out new behaviors that lead to better outcomes.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a positive, goal-oriented approach that helps people focus on what’s working and how to build on it—rather than spending a lot of time digging into problems from the past.
Instead of asking, “Why is this happening?” it asks:
“What do you want to be different?”
“What’s already helping, even in small ways?”
“What would things look like if they were better?”
SFBT helps people:
Identify clear, realistic goals
Recognize their strengths and resources
Build on small successes to create lasting change
It’s called “brief” because it’s meant to be efficient and practical—focusing on solutions rather than problems. Even small steps can lead to meaningful progress.
In short, Solution-Focused Therapy is about looking forward, not backward, and helping you create the changes you want to see—starting from where you already are.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a supportive, collaborative style of therapy that helps people work through mixed feelings about making changes in their lives.
Sometimes, we know we want or need to make a change—like managing stress better, improving relationships, or getting more motivated—but part of us feels stuck, unsure, or even resistant. That’s completely normal.
Motivational Interviewing helps by:
Creating a non-judgmental space to talk openly about what you want and what’s getting in the way
Exploring your own reasons for change, rather than being told what to do
Strengthening your motivation and confidence to take meaningful steps forward
Instead of pushing or pressuring, the therapist works with you, helping you sort through your thoughts, build self-awareness, and find the internal motivation to move in the direction that feels right for you.
In short, MI helps you get unstuck and move toward the goals that matter most to you—on your own terms.
Stages of Change Model
The Transtheoretical Model of Change explains that meaningful change happens gradually, in stages. Everyone moves through these stages at their own pace, and therapy works best when it matches a person’s readiness to change.
Six Stages of Change:
Precontemplation
The person isn’t yet thinking about change or doesn’t see a problem.Contemplation
They’re aware change might be needed but feel unsure or ambivalent.Preparation
They’re planning and getting ready to make a change.Action
They’re actively making changes and trying new behaviors.Maintenance
They work to sustain changes and prevent relapse.Relapse (common and normal)
They may slip back into old habits but can restart the process without shame.
This model helps therapists meet clients where they are, tailoring support to their current stage. It also normalizes that change isn’t always straight forward—setbacks are part of the journey.
By understanding the stages, therapy can be more effective, respectful, and supportive of lasting change.
Contact Us!
Whether you're seeking help with school, work, relationships, or life direction, we’re here to help you build the skills, confidence, and clarity you need for a more fulfilling future.