Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Taking the step to schedule your first therapy session is an important and courageous decision. Whether you’re feeling nervous, uncertain, hopeful, or a combination of all three, I want you to know that your feelings are completely normal. The first session is not about being “perfect” or having all the answers. It’s about starting a conversation — your story, your experiences, and your hopes for therapy — in a safe, welcoming space. The first session is designed to help us get acquainted and set the foundation for the work we’ll do together. Think of it as a conversation where you’re in the driver’s seat, and I’m here to guide, listen, and support you along the way. This is the time to tell me what brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from our work together. There is no right or wrong way to share — just being present and open to the process is enough. During this initial session, I’ll ask questions to better understand your history, your experiences, and the patterns that may be affecting your life. This might include discussing past challenges, previous experiences with therapy, relationships, work, family dynamics, or other areas of life that are important to you. The goal is not to overwhelm you with questions, but to gather enough information to guide the next steps of your journey in a way that feels personalized and meaningful. We will also talk about your goals for therapy. Some clients come in with a clear sense of what they want to work on, while others are still exploring what changes might be possible. Both approaches are completely valid. Together, we’ll identify what matters most to you and set intentions that feel realistic and actionable. These goals will guide our work, but they are flexible — therapy is a process, and goals can evolve as you gain insight and perspective. A key part of the first session is also discussing what you can expect from therapy. I’ll explain my approach, the methods and tools we might use, and how sessions are structured. I’ll answer any questions you have about the process, confidentiality, or anything else on your mind. Many clients feel a sense of relief simply by knowing what to expect and understanding that therapy is a collaborative process — we work together, and you have a voice in every step. You may feel nervous or worried about opening up, and that’s completely normal. Some clients are concerned about saying the “wrong” thing or revealing something too personal. Please know that this

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

Having worked as a therapist for nearly three decades, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside hundreds of clients as they navigate life’s challenges, transitions, and moments of growth. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what makes therapy effective and meaningful — and what makes clients feel truly seen, supported, and empowered. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to meet clients where they are. I understand that every person comes to therapy with a unique story, perspective, and set of challenges. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing, and I never assume I know exactly what someone needs without first listening and understanding their experiences. Whether you arrive feeling anxious, guarded, overwhelmed, or uncertain, I create a safe, compassionate space where you can be yourself. I believe that true change begins with feeling understood and accepted, and I prioritize that foundation in every session. Empathy and compassion are central to my work. I have a natural ability to sense and respond to what a client is feeling, even when it’s unspoken. Clients often describe feeling “heard” and “validated” when they meet with me, which helps them open up and engage in the therapeutic process. Compassion doesn’t just mean kindness; it means seeing your struggles, honoring your experiences, and believing in your capacity for growth — even when you may doubt yourself. Alongside empathy, experience is a critical strength I bring to therapy. Nearly 30 years of working in both community mental health and private practice has given me insight into a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship difficulties, workplace stress, and family dynamics. This breadth of experience allows me to recognize patterns, identify root causes, and help clients develop strategies that are tailored to their unique situations. I know what works, what might need adjusting, and how to guide people toward tangible, measurable progress. Another strength is my practical, solution-focused approach. While therapy is a place to explore feelings, history, and self-reflection, it is also a space for actionable growth. I help clients create clear goals and a structured plan that is achievable and realistic. By combining insight with practical tools, clients can see progress in ways that feel concrete and meaningful, which reinforces motivation and hope. I also believe in humor and human connection as part of the th

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

When someone begins looking for a therapist, it usually means they’ve reached a point where carrying things alone feels too heavy. My ideal clients are people who may not have it all figured out — and that’s okay. They come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward, but they’re open to exploring, learning, and making changes that can bring more balance and joy into their lives. People navigating anxiety and worry Many of my clients struggle with anxiety. Some describe it as a constant sense of unease that makes it hard to relax, sleep, or focus. Others feel stuck in “what if” thinking — worrying about the future, replaying conversations, or fearing they’re not doing enough. Anxiety can show up in the body too: racing heart, restlessness, stomach issues, or a tight chest. My ideal clients are those who are ready to understand their anxiety and learn ways to calm their minds and bodies. They may not believe it’s possible yet, but they’re willing to try. People living with depression or feeling emotionally stuck I also work well with clients who describe life as heavy, dull, or colorless. Depression can show up as exhaustion, loss of interest in things that once brought joy, difficulty getting out of bed, or feeling disconnected from others. My ideal clients aren’t necessarily in crisis — though sometimes they are — but they know something needs to change. They’re open to exploring their feelings, building small steps of progress, and rediscovering what makes life meaningful. People struggling with addiction or recovery Because of my extensive training and certification in addictions, many of my clients are individuals who are either struggling with substance use or are in recovery and want continued support. My ideal clients in this area are those who are ready to face the truth about how alcohol, drugs, or other behaviors are impacting their lives and relationships. They may feel shame, guilt, or fear — but they’re also brave enough to reach out for help. I meet clients in this space with zero judgment, only compassion and practical strategies for change. Couples facing conflict, disconnection, or life transitions I work with couples who are tired of fighting the same battles, avoiding each other, or feeling like roommates instead of partners. Some are trying to rebuild trust after a betrayal, while others simply want to improve communication and feel close again. My ideal couples are those willing to be honest, take respons

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