Affirmative Counseling

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At Affirmative Counseling we believe that each person has the ability to heal and grow; to create a life that is satisfying and meaningful; to build life-giving relationships; to accept imperfection in self and others; and to find the strength to cope with the challenges that life presents. We use a variety of traditional and holistic therapeutic techniques to support you in your journey of physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual well-being.

Sara Shuff, MSW, LICSW is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Affirmative Counseling. Sara's expertise include working with gender identity & sexuality issues, life transitions, childhood trauma, relationship issues, eating disorders, adolescents, depression, anxiety, grief & loss. She uses an array of traditional and holistic intervention techniques, including EMDR, to assist her clients in healing and reaching their personal goals. Sara is inspired on a daily basis by the courage of those she works with, and feels honored by the many people who have trusted her with their vulnerability during the therapeutic process. She is particularly interested in working with alternative families, teens, and GLBT people. If you have questions for Sara about her therapy practice, or if you would like to set up a free initial telephone consultation, you can contact her at 413.358.3038 or at sarashuff@affirmativecounseling.net.

Kelly Heck, MSW, LICSW is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. Kellys areas of expertise include working with individuals facing sexuality and gender issues, with a special interest in serving youth and young adults. Kelly was the creator of the Live Out Loud Youth Project, an ongoing social-support group for youth who identify as LGBTQI and their allies, with the vision of encouraging positive relationships among peers and building supportive relationships with community members and organizations. In addition to work with sexuality and gender, she has expertise in treating trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, and challenges presented by life transitions. Kelly provides individual, couples, and family treatment, and welcomes both traditional and non-traditional family members. The healing process is unique for each individual, so Kelly will partner with you to identify your goals and the best path to achieve them. Kelly is trained in EMDR, as well as myriad mind/body, emotional, and behavioral techniques to address needs as they arise. In addition to psychotherapy and group work, Kelly welcomes the opportunity to provide community-based consultation and trainings on diversity issues and mental and behavioral health. You are invited to contact Kelly at 413-358-5697 or via e-mail at kellyheck@affirmativecounseling.net.