Cael Barkman is a therapist at Eden Valley in Burlington, Vermont. Cael is known for being compassionate, curious, direct, and patient, and for telling clients the truth with care. This post introduces Cael's approach, specialties, and how to get started.
A direct, curious approach
Cael collaborates with clients on boundaries, empowerment, and letting go of behaviors and thoughts that are no longer helpful. They lead with curiosity, empathy, and flexibility, with one overall goal: meeting you where you are in the moment.
Cael has worked with clients of all ages throughout their career. In their therapy practice, they have a special interest in working with women living with anxiety, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, life stressors, grief, and trauma.
Methods Cael uses
Cael is trained in a range of evidence-based approaches and most often draws on:
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Narrative Therapy
- Relational Cultural Therapy
Cael approaches all of these through a feminist lens.
What Cael works on
- Avoidant behaviors: OCD, phobias, anxiety, and PTSD
- Disordered eating: building new, healthier relationships with food and body
- Grief and trauma: supporting people through loss and difficult life experiences with patience and care
- Life stressors and borderline personality disorder: navigating intense emotions and life transitions
Cael also works with couples. They act as a curious observer and an active participant, reflecting back patterns in behavior and communication and opening up honest talk about what a couple hopes the relationship can be. The work centers on communication skills, connection, and handling life stressors together.
What colleagues say
“Cael is warm, genuine, and compassionate. They make people feel seen and supported while still keeping things real and they’re an all-around wonderful human to have in your corner!”
A colleague at Eden Valley
“Someone who will tell you how it is, but in the kindest and gentlest way possible. Cael’s humor and enthusiasm for the work makes them a wonderful therapist and colleague.”
A colleague at Eden Valley
“They have a wonderful sense of levity that they bring into their work, making them incredibly approachable and easy to talk to. They have a unique ability to be straightforward while still creating a space that feels safe, supportive, and judgment-free.”
A colleague at Eden Valley
How to get started
If you want a therapist who offers compassion, honesty, and the occasional loving reality check, Cael may be a good fit. Use our contact page or call Eden Valley at (802) 333-0112. Appointments are available in person at 95 College St, Burlington, VT, and by teletherapy. You can also read Cael's team page.
This post is general information about a clinician, not medical advice. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988.
Frequently asked questions
What does Cael Barkman treat?
Avoidant behaviors such as OCD, phobias, anxiety, and PTSD, plus disordered eating, grief, trauma, life stressors, and borderline personality disorder. Cael also works with couples.
What therapy methods does Cael use?
DBT, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Relational Cultural Therapy, through a feminist lens.
What ages does Cael work with?
Cael has worked with clients of all ages throughout their career. Ask when you reach out about the best fit for your situation.
