Jennifer Woodruff

I became a therapist because I wanted to help people. I’ve dealt with some mental health issues myself since childhood, and I enjoy helping people realize that with treatment and support it’s possible to move forward in life. The part of my job I find most gratifying is when people see progress in an area that previously felt hopeless or impossible.

I decided to specialize in OCD after encountering numerous clients with this disorder, which is often misdiagnosed as generalized anxiety disorder. I found myself getting frustrated because I didn't know how to best help people overcome their distress. When I became aware of a specialized training program for OCD, I knew that was where I needed to be.

My other areas of focus are depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and work/career issues. My experience at a community mental health center showed me that no matter what is going on in someone’s life, anxiety and depression are common to most everyone at some time or other.

It’s OK to feel anxious about trying something new. To achieve something different than what you’ve always had, it begins with doing something different than you’ve always done! You might feel embarrassed, ashamed, or like your situation is unique. I understand that reaching out for help may feel scary. I aim to help people feel comfortable when sharing and give them a sense of hope that achieving some relief is not only possible but entirely realistic.

Feeling afraid to share is normal and not unusual, given the often-sensitive nature of personal thoughts. It’s ok to express this feeling. We’ll work together at a pace that feels comfortable for you.