PMDD doesn't just affect your body—it can affect your whole life. One week you may feel like yourself, and the next you might be dealing with mood swings, deep fatigue, or a heavy sense of dread that makes even simple tasks feel hard. If this sounds familiar, it isn't a lack of willpower. PMDD is a real medical condition, and it deserves real care and support. For many people in Ithaca, it can also feel especially isolating without the right support network. 

For many, the days before a period bring more than physical discomfort. Irritability can feel close to the surface, emotions may rise quickly, and things that usually bring comfort can feel out of reach. Sleep and focus often get disrupted, and it can start to feel like you're not fully in control of your own reactions. Over time, these shifts can take a toll on work, relationships, and your day-to-day routines.

Hormonal changes may drive the symptoms, but the impact often spreads into every part of life. You might notice more conflict or misunderstandings during certain weeks, or find yourself pulling away from others just to get through the day. Learning to track patterns is a helpful first step, and meaningful change usually comes from support that addresses both the symptoms and the ripple effects.

What I Offer for Real Relief

Getting ahead of PMDD usually takes more than hoping next month will be easier. My approach blends evidence-based therapy, support around medication when needed, and practical lifestyle changes—based on your symptoms, your goals, and what's realistic in your life. Some people find relief with therapy alone, others benefit from medication support, and many do best with a mix that can shift over time.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Helps you notice thinking patterns that intensify symptoms and builds new ways to respond when emotions run high. I use CBT and DBT skills to support this work.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy: Teaches tools for getting through intense moments, managing stress, and staying more steady during the hardest days of your cycle.
• Medication Support: Antidepressants or hormone-based treatments may help reduce mood symptoms, especially when paired with therapy.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Support around sleep, movement, and nourishment to help your body handle hormonal shifts more smoothly.
• Mindfulness Practices: Skills like focused breathing and body scans to help you feel more grounded when symptoms start to build. I often draw from creative mindfulness methods in these sessions.

There isn't one "right" way to treat PMDD. We'll work together to find what helps, and we'll adjust as your needs change. My goal is to reduce the intensity and help you feel more like yourself across the month.

How I Build Emotional Stability Together

When emotions hit hard and fast, it helps to have more than insight—you need tools you can use in the moment. Our work isn't only about talking through what's happening; it's also about practicing what to do when anger, sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm show up.

I use CBT and DBT to help you notice early warning signs, shift unhelpful thoughts, and use coping skills in real time. You'll practice tools you can use at home, at work, or wherever symptoms show up. Over time, it often becomes easier to tell the difference between PMDD-driven intensity and everyday stress, and to respond with more intention instead of feeling pulled into autopilot. We can also work on communication so the people around you understand what you need, which can reduce conflict and help you feel less alone.

What to Expect When You Start

In our first sessions, we'll take time to understand your symptoms, your cycle, and the moments that feel most challenging. You'll share what a rough week looks like, what you've tried, and what you want to be different, and I'll build a plan that fits your life—so it feels supportive and doable, not generic. Sessions stay focused but flexible: you might track symptoms, practice coping skills, and identify triggers, then try strategies between sessions and share what helped.

You can meet with me in person or by telehealth across New York State, which can be especially helpful during high-symptom weeks. If medication or other medical care is part of your plan, I can coordinate with your other providers so your support feels consistent. I'll also help you adjust your approach across the cycle, using your patterns and what's realistic in your life in Ithaca, along with resources available in the community. If you're interested in other areas I support, you can explore endometriosis and chronic illness or women's mental health as well.

• Follicular Phase: Often a steadier time to set goals, build routines, and practice new skills.
• Ovulation: Tracking helps you notice any mood or energy changes and plan ahead.
• Luteal Phase: When symptoms often peak, we focus on coping skills, protecting your time, and lowering avoidable stress.
• Menstrual Phase: As symptoms ease, we review what worked, prioritize rest, and reset for the next cycle.

PMDD Support for Women and Young Adults in Ithaca, NY

PMDD isn't "just PMS," and it isn't something you should have to push through alone. When symptoms start to affect your job, your relationships, or your sense of self, getting support can make a real difference. I specialize in hormone-related mood concerns and women's mental health, and I bring a steady, practical approach to helping you find relief and build skills that last. I also work with young adults and college students in Ithaca, NY, including those near Cornell University and Ithaca College, who are managing PMDD alongside anxiety, depression, or academic stress. 

If you're dealing with hopelessness, thoughts of self-harm, or you notice yourself withdrawing from people and responsibilities, it's important to reach out. You deserve support that takes your experience seriously and helps you find a plan that brings real relief. Treatment can help, and you don't have to carry this by yourself.