Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, based in Illinois with over ten years of experience in the field. I have a specialization in art therapy and a certification as a trauma professional. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, supporting them with various challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, low self-esteem, identity issues, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and grief and loss.
Our first few sessions will be dedicated to getting to know one another and building connection. In our first session, we'll spend some time looking at what brings you to therapy. From there, we'll create goals that identify what you hope to gain through our work together.
My approach is holistic, focusing on your strengths and considering all aspects of your individuality. I’ll work with you using various well-practiced techniques and provide a safe space for open and honest communication, tailoring treatment to your needs. I bring compassion and empathy to each session. I understand that the road to change can be challenging, and will walk beside you on this road.
I have several years of experience integrating Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) into my practice. I use ACT to help clients increase awareness and acceptance of their thoughts and feelings, develop awareness of their values, live more in alignment with their values, improve distress tolerance, and develop a more present-oriented mindset.
I have several years of experience integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into my practice. I use CBT to help clients increase awareness of their thoughts and behaviors, become aware of and shift negative core beliefs, learn to reframe unhelpful thinking and make healthier choices to improve their well-being.
Mindfulness-based therapy is a common approach I will weave into my practice. I suggest practices to help clients become more attuned to their bodies and the connection between their minds and bodies. Practices such as body scans, PMR, and diaphragmatic breathing can help with tending to uncomfortable physical symptoms and managing distressing feelings, unhelpful thoughts, and behaviors.
I have several years of integrating a Strength-Based approach into my practice. I view each person holistically and try to guide them to notice their strengths. We focus on noticing their unique qualities, skills, and achievements so that they can learn to shift negative/unhelpful mindsets and core beliefs and reconnect with their strengths
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional I bring an informed and sensitive approach into my work with clients dealing with trauma. We work to build a foundation of trust and alliance, address current stressors, and develop coping skills before moving into more distressing events (and only when they are ready and stable enough to do so). CBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, somatic-based therapy and strengths-based methods are often used.