Jan Barber

I prefer the informal first-name approach, so please feel free to call me Jan, however, I am sensitive to and respectful of individual preferences. With over 30 years’ experience, I am a licensed clinical social worker and a graduate of Syracuse University School of Social Work. I was immediately drawn to Family Systems Theory because it is both individual and relationship inclusive. I was also influenced by Dr. Thomas Szasz who focused on building individuality and strengths rather than labeling, diagnosing and “scanning,” for deficits.
During my early career, I specialized in treating addiction and was fortunate to study with Terrance Gorski, Father Martin, David Ackerman, John O’Neil, Patrick Carnes and John Bradshaw, and I learned early on that reality-based treatment, that fosters insight, and growth works more effectively than the “age old,” philosophies of confrontation and rigid expectations.
During a 22-year career as clinical director of a domestic abuse program, I was fortunate to train with Hal Rankle, David Wexler, Ben Siegel and Clay Taft who were leaders in the evidenced-based treatment methodologies for Scream Free Marriage, S.T.O.P. Domestic Violence, Trauma Focused CBT, and Strength at Home. I learned that working with client to build self-definition is an important first step in resolving issues that impact of unhealthy relationships.
During the Iraq/Afghanistan wars, I focused on treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, panic disorder, anxiety and agoraphobia. Again, I was fortunate to have trained with leaders in the field including Edna Foa, Dr. Fellwock, and the Shapiro team learning Prolonged exposure therapy, CPT for PTSD and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Exploring with clients to find the “best fit,” therapy is a process worth investing in, because ultimately it results in healthy outcomes.
Using a person-centered approach to focus on empowering clients to harness their strengths and develop effective coping mechanisms, I have worked with individuals, couples and families to navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in addressing anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, codependency and self-esteem and I believe in providing sufficient time for a client to discover their personal pace through the therapeutic process.