LCSW, 7 years of experience
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. I attended the University of Texas at Arlington where I received my Master's in Social Work and Bachelor's in Communication. I've been a social worker for six years and previously worked in leadership at a non-profit domestic violence (DV) agency. Before becoming a counselor, I was a journalist who reported on crime and public health issues. The hardest part of my job was interviewing people who had just lost a loved one. The work I did with them is what gave me the final push to pursue my dreams of becoming a counselor. In my capacity as a social worker, I have worked with survivors of DV, perpetrators of DV, survivors of sexual abuse, and survivors of family violence. I testify as an expert witness in domestic violence cases and provide training in the community. I am experienced in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use disorders. I am passionate about helping others find peace and purpose by working through their pain.
During our first session, we will discuss some background information about you, what brings you to therapy, and what you would like to achieve. We will move at a pace you are comfortable with.
This role is personal to me. Not only have I professionally researched, trained, and worked with clients experiencing extreme duress and trauma - I have been there, too. I understand what it's like to be in a vulnerable position trying to find someone who can help. This is why I decided to accept all insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare because I believe counseling should be accessible to all people. My motto has always been to give pain a purpose, and this is my purpose - helping you find yours. I believe my greatest strength is my ability to empathize and connect with people from all backgrounds. My clients often say they feel heard, supported, empowered, and excited for the next session.
I feel uniquely positioned to work with clients who have trauma from abuse, and those who use substances to dull that pain. I have personal and professional experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, domestic violence, substance use, suicidal ideation, grief, and loss. I am eager to share an empathetic ear, support you in showcasing your strengths, and help you find purpose in your chosen path.
I believe Trauma-Informed Care is crucial when working with anyone who has experienced traumatic experiences that affect who they are today. I’ve worked with hundreds of domestic violence survivors who had been re-traumatized whether intentionally or unintentionally along their path to leaving their abusers. I've worked with abusers who continued the cycle of violence based on their past trauma. I've personally experienced, and worked with clients who have trauma due to the tragic death of parents, siblings, and partners at a young age. I've worked with those who have been in and out of the criminal justice system, the foster system, and more. I pride myself in following my training in first not re-traumatizing clients, and working with them to safely find peace.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is my preferred treatment for mental health, substance use, and familial strife (outside of domestic violence). I collaborate with the client throughout our sessions on any negative thought patterns or poor boundaries. I believe in role-playing with clients, offering resources outside of sessions, and building one's confidence in pursuing peace.
My goal for my clients is to not need me long-term. I want you to feel happy and whole. As such, I believe in using Motivational Interviewing with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for clients who struggle with anxiety, and co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders.