Hi, I'm Erika! If you're reading this, congrats on taking your first step toward change by seeking a therapist. How exciting! And also maybe nerve-racking, as anything new can be. I can't promise to have all the answers, but I can serve as your guide as we tackle obstacles together and build upon your strengths. I look forward to meeting you! **Some additional time slots not listed on calendar may be available upon request** Experience: While working in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I have worked with very diverse populations of adults and adolescents, addressing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, OCD, BFRBs, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, terminal illness, disabilities, family conflict, suicidal ideation, and more.
You can expect our first session to be a laid-back conversation that allows me to get to know you and your goals, gives you an opportunity to ask questions, and allows you to see if we might be a good fit to work together.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as motivational interviewing, strength-based therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) components, & positive psychotherapy. In short, CBT is a structured therapy that focuses on how thoughts, feelings, & behaviors are interrelated and how to change thought patterns that are unhelpful to us. I also value a person-centered approach, which emphasizes the importance of the client-therapist relationship. This approach believes that you, the client, are the expert on your own life experiences and a therapist acts as a support to assist you in uncovering new insights and discovering solutions. As each client is unique and ever-evolving, I encourage feedback and modify my approach as needed.
As a Social Worker, in addition to having clinical skills and experience, I maintain an awareness of systemic/social issues that impact mental health and feel this is one of my unique strengths. I am also sex-positive, an LGBTQIA+ ally, and a fan of memes.
any age or gender identity. but especially ages 18-26 and 50+. anxiety, depression, OCD, hair-pulling/skin-picking, life stage transitions (college, end of relationships, retirement, etc.)