Jess Butler (she/they), AMFT

As a psychotherapist I’ve spent hundreds of hours working with clients dealing with relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, substance use, chronic illness, neurodivergence, gender identity, sexuality, aging, parenting, career changes, and emotional regulation. I’m also a former college professor with a PhD in sociology and gender studies, and I’ve researched and written and taught about how social systems shape our internal experiences and intimate lives. In both of these spaces, I’ve connected with people from all kinds of backgrounds in a way that honors their differences and recognizes their strengths.

I use Emotionally Focused Therapy as a framework to help partners and individuals identify negative cycles and attachment patterns, access unexpressed emotions, and become more aware of their fears and needs. My approach is relational and psychodynamic, which means we’ll look together at how your early experiences have shaped your relationships and sense of self, and how your unconscious beliefs and protective strategies show up in your daily life. Our work will vary depending on your needs, but it will always be inclusive, trauma-informed, and attuned to cultural differences. It will prioritize lasting change over quick fixes. It will be affirming, and it will be challenging. It will open up new ways of seeing and being in relationship with your partner and with yourself.

It takes courage to step into a stranger’s office, nervous and exhausted but determined to make a change. It’s my job to make therapy a space where you and your partner can both show up as your whole, imperfect selves and be met with respect, openness, and care. If my approach resonates with you, or you want to talk more about what therapy with me might be like, reach out for a free consultation.