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

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and lay the foundation for our work together. We will begin by reviewing confidentiality and what that means for your care, as well as walking through the therapy process so you know what to expect going forward. From there, we will explore what brought you to therapy and what you are hoping to get out of it, identifying your goals and what you would like our work together to focus on. Beyond the logistics, I want your first session to feel like a safe and welcoming space. There is no pressure to have everything figured out or to share more than you are comfortable with. My goal is for you to leave that first session feeling heard, understood, and confident that you are in the right place. Therapy is a process, and the first step is simply showing up — I will take it from there.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

My approach is grounded in genuine connection and meeting clients where they are. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance, recognizing that the relationship between therapist and client is foundational to meaningful progress. I draw from evidence-based modalities including CBT and mindfulness-based techniques, tailoring interventions to each client's unique needs and goals rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. I place a strong emphasis on validation — helping clients feel truly heard and understood before moving toward change. I believe that feeling seen is often the first step toward healing. From there, I work collaboratively with clients to identify patterns, develop practical coping skills, and build the insight needed to create lasting change. I also incorporate animal-assisted intervention (pet therapy) into my practice, which has proven to be a powerful tool in building rapport, reducing anxiety, and increasing emotional engagement, particularly with clients who are guarded or resistant to traditional therapeutic approaches. What I hear most from clients is that they feel safe in session, that they leave with clarity they did not have when they arrived, and that the work we do together translates into real, noticeable changes in their daily lives. I am direct but compassionate, and I am committed to showing up fully for every client I serve.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I am best positioned to serve individuals who are ready to take an active role in their mental health journey and are seeking a collaborative, supportive therapeutic relationship. I specialize in working with clients navigating depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions, including those adjusting to significant changes such as loss, relationship challenges, or shifts in identity and purpose. I work well with clients who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected and are looking for practical tools and meaningful support to help them move forward. Whether you are processing a painful loss, struggling with persistent worry or low mood, or working to improve your relationships and communication, I am here to help you make sense of your experiences and develop the skills to manage them more effectively. I have experience working with elderly individuals and those in long-term care settings, addressing the emotional challenges that accompany aging, health decline, loss of autonomy, and grief. I also work with couples navigating relational conflict, broken trust, and communication difficulties, helping partners rebuild connection and communicate more effectively. My ideal clients are those who come to therapy with openness and a genuine desire for growth, even if they are unsure where to start. You do not have to have everything figured out — you simply need to be willing to show up and do the work. If you are ready to invest in yourself and your well-being, I am here to walk alongside you in that process.