Julia Rafferty, LICSW

Psychotherapist

Hello, it's nice to meet you. My name is Julia. My pronouns are she/her.
Throughout my work in the mental health field since 2007, I have provided direct therapeutic care in many different community settings. I have been working at a Masters level since 2013 and with my LICSW since 2017. I've collaborated with individuals and families on addressing challenges related to trauma, depression, anxiety, executive functioning, self-image, addressing anger, self-actualization and identity development, social relationships, and family dynamics. I also have lived experience in certain areas that some individuals find helpful to their services. Every person I meet brings a unique self to services, and I am honored to have collaborated with so many incredible people.

Outside of work, my interests include hiking, listening to podcasts, social justice issues, karaoke, and my cat Chief, who might say hi during a session. 

When I'm working with you, you will experience that my approach tends to be warm, interactive, humorous, compassionate, curious, honest, invitational, and creative. I want to support you in feeling empowered and safe while in session. For some, discussing diagnosis and symptoms is helpful, and sometimes not for others. Something I always endeavor to bring to our collaborative relationship is the idea that I am not the only "expert" in the room. While I may provide therapeutic expertise on the issues you're bringing to the table, I also believe that you are an expert on yourself and that every individual has a unique experience that I can't assume. This approach includes a dynamic of sharing feedback while prioritizing your right to determine your quality of life. I believe in using direct and honest communication. I believe that sharing your reflection on what's helpful and unhelpful in our collaborative relationship is essential to services being meaningful for you and for you to reach your goals. Being able to be direct and honest with me, and to explore what's working and not for you, are also strengths that can be used outside of the therapeutic relationship and perhaps on the goals you have in mind.

Specialties: ADHD, Anxiety, Mood, Healthy Communications, Self-Care, Stress Management, Adults, Teens 16+ 

Julia is seeing clients virtually only, and accepts the following: BCBS, Anthem, Harvard Pilgrim, Tufts, Optum, Healthplans Inc., and Self-Pay