I understand how difficult seeking help can be for many teens. With over 25 years of experience, I’m able to engage the most challenging young people, so they can get the help they need. I specialize in working with teens who are struggling across multiple domains in their lives. My approach is both trauma-informed and strength based. I have extensive training in ARC (Attachment Regulation and Competency) interventions. I have a long history of running mental health programs for youth and their families, I bring a unique understanding of child welfare, educational, justice and mental health systems. As an adoptive parent of four children of color from the Department of Children and Families, my understanding of race, attachment and trauma inform me as a therapist. My experience working within juvenile justice with law enforcement and defense attorneys makes me an important resource to families struggling with legal concerns. I have a unique understanding of the needs of young people and their families navigating the the path of independence and adulthood. I am happy to take your call and discuss how I can help your child. Depending on your insurance provider my services may be eligible for reimbursement through out-of-network benefits or health care savings accounts.

Standing Ovation 2018

Department of Youth Services’ Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative.

Entrepreneur of the Year (Nominated) 2016

Ernst & Young LLC

Social Innovator Class of 2016 2016

The Social Innovation Forum

Best Practice Award for Teen Programming 2005

The Boston Foundation

Greatest Contribution by a Social Worker with Five Years or Less

Post-Degree Experience 2001

National Association of Social Workers, Massachusetts Chapter

Community Action Award 1990

Coalition for Gay and Lesbian Civil Rights

The Bayard Rustin Award 1989

Volunteer Work:

Clinical Member, MA Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers 2020-Present

Board Member, MASOC-Massachusetts Society for a World Free of Sexual

Harm by Youth 2018-present

Co-Chair, Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative Suffolk County, MA 2017-2020

Chair, Government Relations, Coalition for Juvenile Justice 2014-2019

Council Member, MA Juvenile Justice Advisory Council 2011-2019

Member, Governmental Relations, Coalition for Juvenile Justice 2013-2014

Project Advisor, Collaborating for Change: Addressing Youth

Homelessness and Juvenile Justice. 2016-2017

Board Member, MA Network of Foster Care Alumni 2011- 2014

Member, Josiah Quincy School Association 2005- 2012

Representative City-Wide Parent Council, Boston Public Schools 2010-2011

Board Member, South End Community Health Center, Boston, MA 2009- 2011

President, Josiah Quincy School Association 2005- 2008

Advisory Committee Member, Simmons College Graduate School of

Work, Urban Leadership Advisory Committee 1998- 2000

Peterson, M. Lee; Butts, Jeff H. & Douglas M. Deville (2000) Parenting experiences of three self-identified gay fathers. Smith College School of Social Work Case Studies. 70(3), 513-521.

Butts, Jeff H. (1998) Past and present movements in juvenile justice. Social Work Focus: National Association of Social Workers, Massachusetts Chapter. (25) 2, 11.

Forcier, M.W. Berube, M., & J.H. Butts (1995) Evaluation of Project FORCE (Females Outreaching Resources and Cultural Enrichment); A girl gang prevention program: Final report. Family and Youth Services Bureau, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.