Mary Hess

You’ve tried everything to help your teen feel better — to ease their stress, lift their mood, or rebuild the connection that feels harder to reach lately. But no matter what you do, the tension lingers. You see their pain, and it breaks your heart, but you’re also exhausted yourself — caught between wanting to fix things and not knowing how. That’s where I come in. I help parents and teens find their way back to one another by creating a space where both can be heard, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll slow things down and uncover what’s really happening beneath the surface — the worries, fears, and unmet needs that often hide behind frustration or withdrawal.

I work with people who feel overwhelmed by worry and restlessness, helping them find peace and regain a sense of control. I also specialize in helping teens manage school stress, social pressures, and identity exploration, and I support caregivers balancing their own well-being with those they care for. I provide affirming guidance for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating unique challenges related to identity, coming out, relationships, and discrimination, ensuring a safe, inclusive space for growth.

My approach combines practical, evidence-based tools like CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing with genuine curiosity and compassion. I ask the right questions — the ones that open doors instead of walls — to help families and individuals communicate with more empathy and less defensiveness. My goal is to help your teen feel more confident and emotionally regulated, while helping you feel steadier, more connected, and reassured that you’re not alone in this.