Family therapy and counseling in Brookline, MA

The foundation of my practice is based on the respect I have for my clients, and my therapeutic approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. As a trained and experienced therapist, I am not only technically objective, but also provide you with emotional nourishment and assistance as you work through problem areas in your life. Psychotherapy is about growth and transformation and equips you to overcome challenges impacting your family, job or relationships. My areas of expertise include addiction, relationship or job-related issues, depression, anxiety and stress. I employ solution focused therapy based on psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I am also a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) to evaluate employees who have violated a DOT drug and alcohol program regulation and makes recommendations concerning education, treatment, follow-up, testing, and aftercare.

I’m Alison (Ali) Pugh, a Clinical Social Worker, USAF veteran, and mom of two. I help adults who are juggling work, family, caregiving, or major life changes that feel heavier than they look on the surface. If you’re feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, you’re in the right place. My style is calm, collaborative, and steady. There’s no pressure to have the perfect words.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families across educational, community, and behavioral health settings. I help clients navigate anxiety, stress, emotional and behavioral concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, parenting challenges, and personal growth. My approach is warm, collaborative, strengths-based, and culturally responsive, and I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel comfortable being vulnerable, express their authentic selves, and feel genuinely heard and understood. I honor each client’s unique culture, values, and life experiences while helping them develop practical tools and move toward meaningful change.

As a licensed mental health counselor and with over eighteen years of experience working in the field, I am committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. I believe that healing begins when individuals feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted. My therapeutic style is warm, approachable, and collaborative, allowing clients to build trust and feel comfortable discussing even the most difficult aspects of their lives. I am highly empathetic and intuitive, with a keen ability to recognize both verbal and nonverbal communication. By paying close attention to body language, emotional patterns, and underlying themes, I help clients identify the root causes of their challenges and develop practical strategies for healing, resilience, and personal growth. I strive to meet each client where they are, honoring their unique experiences while helping them build insight, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.

I graduated from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Services. I've had the opportunity to work with the elderly, adolescents, teens and families. Providing family therapy is my specialty.

I am an HBCU educated single mother of twins who is passionate about the work I do. I approach our sessions as your time to work through what you are ready to tackle in your life. I will follow your lead, while gently challenging you when necessary in order to help you reach the goals you have set for yourself. If you would like a faith-based approach, I can offer that as well.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in pharmacy, giving me a well-rounded perspective on mental health care. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults, while also supporting older adults. My practice is rooted in compassion, advocacy, and respect for each person’s unique journey.

Reach me directly at [email protected] to schedule a consult or appt.

I also accept Medicare, AmBetter, UMR and United plans.

https://care.tavahealth.com/providers/jessica-gaffney

Therapy is a healing of the past, UNFOLDING OF THE PRESENT AND gift for your future. You will see growth from day one.