Taking back control of your life starts here.

We help you fully embrace your thoughts and emotions while giving you actionable tips and tools to better navigate life.

We offer both in-person and online sessions

 

We combine traditional therapy with an actionable modern approach.

This means we focus on giving you the skills to navigate the challenges and obstacles in everyday life, versus just giving you insight into why you’re feeling the way you do. Our approach gives you actionable steps from the first session. 

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We use a personalized and evidence-based approach to give you the tools you need to thrive in everyday situations. 

If therapy is a new experience for you, or if you’ve had an “unhelpful” experience in the past, know that we strive to make it practical and effective. No matter what you’re here for, we provide a safe space that is non-judgmental, supportive, warm, compassionate, and provides validation. 

In your sessions, you have the opportunity to share everything you need in a confidential manner. Then, we’ll give you our outside perspective and action-steps so you are prepared and able to make big strides forward while we hold you accountable because as Brené Brown says, “courage over comfort.” 

 
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Jump to more information about:

Substance Use & Addiction | Eating Disorders | Couples Therapy | Anxiety | Trauma & PTSD

Sleep Issues | Parenthood | Depression & Mood Disorders

Moms Weekend Intensive | Couples Weekend Intensive

 

How we work

  • 01.

    Fill out the booking form here or call our office

  • 02.

    You’ll hear from our client care coordinator, Danielle, to conduct an initial phone screen to assist with helping you find the right therapist

  • 03.

    Your therapist will reach out to schedule your first appointment

How we can help

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can affect children, adolescents, and adults—and they can impact everyone around you. Our goal is to help you heal your relationship with food and your body.  

  • We treat eating disorders in children and adolescents through a family-based model as a first-line approach. This means that the whole family is involved in the therapy and the parents facilitate the weight restoration at home. This takes the place of the child going to a program outside of their home. We believe that a child gets well when the family comes together to learn and heal alongside the client.

    A special note on adolescents: Sometimes in adolescents using a family-based treatment model is not the best course of treatment for various reasons. If we find that this is the case in your family, then we can discuss alternative treatment options such as Adolescent-Focused Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa.

    We value collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. Treating an eating disorder does not happen alone. We ask for collaboration with your physician, psychiatrist and/or dietician.

    We have specialized training in Family-Based Therapy for Eating Disorders, Adolescent-Focused Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa, Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Eating Disorders, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. We work from a Health at Every Size (HAES) and Intuitive Eating approach.

Anxiety

Anxiety can show up in your life in a variety of ways and we don’t want to distract you from the worry, we want to teach you what to do to overcome it so you have the confidence to feel your feelings, understand them and know what to do about them.

  • Anxiety can look like: avoidance, conflict, outbursts, seeking reassurance, being disruptive to family routines and relationships, obsessive thinking, irritability, tummy aches, social avoidance, and striving for perfection, to name a few.

    Most people come to us stating that they have learned about anxiety and how to distract themselves from the worry, but not what to do about it. This is why we give you a plan within the first few sessions.

    ​We offer an approach to getting to the root of anxiety that is Cognitive Behavior Therapy. We teach concrete and directive skills that offer clients new strategies to manage their worries. With children, we require parents to be involved in the anxiety treatment as well so that they are learning the skills alongside their child.

    We believe that teaching clients and families what to do and how to do it right from the start can empower them to see that they can understand and manage worry.

Depression & Mood Disorders

Depression and mood disorders often impact every part of someone’s life and can present in many different ways, and are often much more than just the common symptoms. It can impact the ability to function as an effective partner and/or parent, to form and maintain positive relationships, the ability to work, to solve problems, and much more.

  • Some common ways depression and mood disorders present are through sadness, guilt, sleep disturbance, loss of pleasure, social withdrawal, and fatigue to name a few.

    We know that when someone can understand their symptoms, they are more likely to overcome depression. This is why we focus on supporting you to become an expert on your depression by knowing and understanding your signs, symptoms, triggers, and vulnerabilities.

    We give you a plan within the first few sessions that starts to give you the confidence to feel your feelings, understand them, and know what to do about them.

    Many mood disorders, including depression and bipolar II disorder, do benefit from therapeutic support and skills building. Therapy approaches may include Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, or Family Therapy. For moderate to severe depression or bipolar disorder, we collaborate on treatment with other providers and family members when possible to best support your recovery within a greater system of care.

Couples Therapy

Couples enter therapy for many reasons and at varying stages of their relationship. Couples therapy can help people struggling with communication, intimacy, post-affair recovery, parenting, phase of life challenges, blended family or in-law conflict, or coping with mental or physical health conditions.

  • We are here to support people in any situation. Some are sure that they want to repair the relationship. Others are looking for help deciding whether to stay together. Others have decided, or nearly decided, to separate and are looking for help navigating the separation or divorce. All of these scenarios (and more) can benefit from couples therapy.

    When we first meet with you, we spend time assessing the history and goals for your relationship. From there, we will decide together on a plan that matches the intent for therapy.

    Approaches include Solution Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Couples, Imago Therapy, Trauma Sensitive Therapy for Couples, The Gottman Method, or Discernment Counseling.

    We work with married and unmarried couples of all sexual orientations and genders.

Substance Use & Addiction

Addiction impacts thousands of people daily. It can destroy relationships, careers, self-esteem, physical and mental health and so much more. Oftentimes people who misuse substances struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders.

  • Whether it's alcohol, opioids, tobacco, cocaine, marijuana, or any other substance, our MLADCs are here to help. If you are interested in taking the first step towards starting the dialogue about your desire to cut down or eliminate use of a substance, give our office a call and schedule an appointment with one of our MLADCs.

    Using a non-judgmental, individualized approach, we will help guide you towards gaining control over your addiction and taking back control over your life.

Trauma & PTSD

Trauma and PTSD can affect every aspect of your life, including how you view the world or yourself. It no longer allows you to feel safe in everyday situations. You could have experienced trauma from childhood, a sudden death or loss, an abusive relationship, an accident, or other difficult situations. 

  • We work alongside you as you learn about and heal from your trauma.

    The choice to confront trauma is never easy. Often our natural response is to avoid things that make us uncomfortable. Working with one of our CPT-trained therapists will provide you the opportunity to step into understanding your symptoms, reduce distress about the trauma, decrease emotional numbing, reduce feeling on edge, decrease depression, anxiety, guilt or shame, and improve your day-to-day living.

    CPT is a 12-week evidence-based cognitive-behavioral treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). CPT involves examining your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions related to the trauma and teaching you how to step back from your stuck points and formulate alternative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

    CPT is recognized as a best practice for the treatment of PTSD by the U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, as well as the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies.

Sleep Issues

We all know how vital sleep is to living a healthy life and over 50% of adults state difficulty sleeping, half of these chronically. We’re here to support you in changing sleep thoughts, behaviors, and lifestyle habits for improved sleep quality.

  • We now know that sleeping pills are not the solution to insomnia and that it is possible to successfully treat insomnia using Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is proven to be the first-line treatment for adults with chronic insomnia. CBT has been endorsed by the National Institutes of Health as an effective and preferred method for treating insomnia. Research on CBT-I shows the following:​

    • 75% of insomnia patients experience significantly improved sleep

    • The majority become normal sleepers

    • 85-90% reduce or eliminate sleeping pills

    • CBT is more effective than sleeping pills​​

    New research shows that CBT-I doubles the improvement rates of depression compared to antidepressant medication alone in depressed patients with insomnia. It also improves sleep and reduces pain, menopausal hot flashes, fibromyalgia, substance misuse, and PTSD in insomnia patients with these co-morbid health problems.

    CBT-I focuses on changing sleep thoughts and behaviors, lifestyle habits that improve sleep and teaching relaxation techniques. CBT-I is beneficial for individuals with problems falling asleep or waking during the night and individuals who wish to reduce or eliminate sleep medications. Treatment includes an individual assessment and five individual sessions over a 6 week period.

Parenthood

Parenthood is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of life. There are many reasons a parent (or parents) would come to therapy.

  • Some are blending families and need help with the transition of their children. Some are empty nesters for the first time and struggling to adjust. Some are struggling with communicating to their child(ren). Some have a child who is struggling with a mental health concern and they need support on how to cope with this parenting situation and how to support their child. Some are suffering from postpartum depression and/or anxiety.

    When we first meet with you, we spend time understanding your situation then give you the tools, guidance, and support to help you navigate everyday life as a parent.

The Resilient Mommy Weekend Intensive

"The Resilient Mommy" is a weekend intensive group designed exclusively for anxious mothers seeking strength, support, and self-care. Led by Jackie Pollner, LCMHC, this immersive weekend offers a nurturing environment where moms can prioritize their well-being, connect with like-minded individuals, and embark on a journey of personal growth and empowerment. This is a great option to supplement already existing therapy or for when you cannot commit to regular therapy.

  • Join us for a weekend all about YOU!

    Psychoeducation Sessions: Engage in guided discussions and activities to explore the resilience within you and uncover strategies for navigating the challenges of motherhood.

    Supportive Community: Opportunity for connections with fellow moms in a safe and judgment-free space. Share experiences, challenges, and victories, and receive unwavering support from a compassionate community.

    Self-Care Workshops: Indulge in a variety of self-care practices tailored to nurture your mind, body, and soul. From guided relaxation exercises, journaling sessions, to yoga workshops, prioritize your well-being and replenish your spirit.

    Reach out via our online form to learn more and book your weekend.

Couples Weekend Intensive

Couples Weekend Intensives are for couples who are looking for a place to work on experiences in their relationship without the start and stop of weekly therapy. This immersive experience, led by Carrie Winn, LCMHC, is designed to provide couples with the tools and insights needed to navigate challenges and strengthen their bond. Through a combination of interactive activities, guided discussions, and focused psychoeducation tailored to couples issues, you'll explore communication patterns, uncover underlying issues, and learn practical strategies for building a more fulfilling relationship.

  • Our dedicated time together is focused on providing you with the insights and tools needed to navigate your relationship.

    Couples Weekend Intensives are led by Carrie Winn, LCMHC and take place at our Amherst, NH office location, usually over a weekend, 4-5 hours per day.

    Couples weekend intensive might be right for you if:

    1. You and your partner have found it challenging to make weekly therapy sessions work due to busy schedules.

    2. You are interested in gaining skills quickly for your relationship without getting into deeply rooted issues.

    3. Have been drifting apart and neglected each others needs and a jump start would rejuvenate the relationship.

    Reach out via our online form to learn more and book your weekend.

Professional Consultation and Graduate Internships

Many of the therapists at Middle Path Counseling provide professional consultation to fellow therapists who are looking for consultation and mentorship in particular specialities. MPC is also an educational site for many interns from various Universities. We recognize the importance as therapists to continually seek education, supervision, and mentorship. We regularly attend individual and group consultation ourselves.

  • Professional supervision is available in the areas of couples therapy, eating disorders, anxiety treatment for children, adolescents, and families, substance use disorders, and general clinical supervision.

    Graduate Internships are available under the guidance of Jackie Pollner, LCMHC and Carrie Winn, LCMHC onsite at our Amherst, NH location. Please reach out via our online booking form to schedule an interview and inquire about currently availability.

  • I can't say enough about about the wonderful experience I have had with Middle Path.

    I began therapy with Amy in early August. We connected right away and I have made so much progress on the goals that I set for myself. In the past it has taken years for me to accomplish such things. It's been less than 3 months and it's because of Amy.

  • "Jackie is a godsend, and I don't even believe in a god. I've been in and out of therapy since I was 14 and had I found Jackie back then, my life would look a whole lot different. "

    As it is, I found Jackie at 37 after a relentless 10 months of severe postpartum depression and anxiety. From our first session, Jackie felt safe--something I feel with very few people. She is compassionate, non-judgmental, quick-witted, and just so, so good at what she does. Jackie has taught me the difference between content and process and separating the two means I can apply my newfound skills to combat anxiety in literally any scenario. Her guidance has shaped how I think about, communicate with, and engage with my husband, daughter, and parents, and I am a better wife, mother, and daughter thanks to her. I am kinder to myself and more invested in understanding my needs and those of the people around me. Jackie will feel like your best girlfriend, your most trusted expert mentor, your biggest cheerleader...and that voice in your head that says 'maybe you don't need to be anxious about this.' Jackie is a life-changer, and you need her in your life."

  • "Jackie is attentive to everything that you are going through. "

    “She listens and helps you through what may be troubling you. She makes you feel that you are her only patient. I highly recommend Middle Path Counseling to anyone that needs counseling/therapy.”

  • "Jackie's approach to skilled-based therapy is empowering. "

    She listens with intention to understand your challenges and effectively guides and teaches you the skills you need for a happier, more settled mind. I've had several therapists over the years as I struggled with low-level anxiety, but Jackie is the first to teach me practical and helpful skills to manage it. It is a comfort to meet with her because she listens with empathy, while supportively holding you accountable so you can reach your goals. She is a gift to our community and will be the therapist to finally help you move away from the confines of anxiety to a life free from irrational fear. I am so lucky and grateful that I found her.

  • "I cannot recommend Jackie enough!"

    I started therapy in a very turbulent time in my personal life in order to help with my overall anxiety. Not only has Jackie helped me to better identify and regulate my anxiety, but she gave me the confidence to continue to navigate the extended turbulence of my personal and professional life. Jackie starts with the biology and the why behind anxiety and gives you tangible strategies that I use daily to help me soften my anxiety without medication and then will help deconstruct anxious situations in life as they come up as a case study to help you see where you did well and where you can improve.

  • "I’m proud of who I am now and have Jackie to thank for helping me along the way."

    From day one, Jackie has been incredibly easy to talk to and creates a comfortable environment, both in person and virtually. She makes me feel seen and validated. I had a solid knowledge of coping skills before coming into Jackie’s practice, but with her help I was truly able to understand how to USE them for the first time in my life. My personal growth is noticeable, and my recovery is thriving. I’m proud of who I am now and have Jackie to thank for helping me along the way.

Questions about our services?