I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor practicing in the State of Florida. I completed a graduate program studying psychology, and another studying mental health counseling, both with Summa Cum Laude distinction. I hold a Registered Play Therapist Sujpervisor certification, a certification in Adlerian Play Therapy (Advanced), and I am both a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Brainspotting Practitioner. I am a member of the Association for Play Therapists, Florida Mental Health Counselors Association, and North American Society of Adlerian Psychology. I work with individuals from age 3 to age 65 in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, trauma, play therapy, LGBTQIA+ concerns, somatic issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and cultural assimilation. I look forward to working with you on your journey of self-discovery.
Our first session is a bit of getting to know one another. I very strongly feel that healing cannot begin without establishing a good rapport with clients. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It is important to find a therapist you feel is comfortable and authentic, and I strive to provide that environment for my clients. Additionally, I may ask questions for clarification of information that you provided on the intake paperwork, and we will discuss what your goals are for your therapeutic journey. I also take time to explain my working philosophies and what can be expected from me as your therapist.
You are the expert in your own life. My position is that of a consultant. Just as you would see a lawyer for legal advice or an accountant for tax advice, I offer my knowledge and expertise in mental and emotional health. You will find yourself looking forward to therapy as break free from problematic thought patterns. I will support you at every step.
Adlerian therapy, also known as Individual Psychology, is an evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach based on the idea that humans are motivated by social interest and the need to belong. Adlerian therapy emphasizes the importance of understanding an individual within the context of their social environment, including their family, community, and culture. I utilize these principles to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their social context. I encourage clients to explore their feelings, and I help clients identify and work towards specific goals that promote personal growth and overall well-being. Adlerian therapy is highly customized to each client's unique needs and circumstances.
CBT is a widely recognized and empirically supported form of psychotherapy that focuses on addressing the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is based on the idea that our perceptions and interpretations of events significantly influence how we feel and behave. CBT aims to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being. By integrating CBT into our sessions, you will identify and challenge your negative thought patterns, assisting you in developing more adaptive and constructive ways of thinking. I also encourage clients to engage in activities that promote positive emotions and work with you to develop practical skills for managing stress and difficult situations. CBT is a flexible approach that can be tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.
Brainspotting is a relatively new approach that has gained popularity, particularly in the treatment of trauma and other emotional disturbances. Brainspotting is based on the idea that eye positions can be directly correlated with the location of traumatic or emotionally charged memories in the brain. The main concept of Brainspotting is that by identifying and stimulating these "brainspots" through the client's field of vision, the therapist can access and process deep emotional and physiological experiences that are often inaccessible through traditional talk therapy alone. These brainspots are identified as specific eye positions that correspond to the physiological and emotional activation within the client's nervous system. During a Brainspotting session, I help clients find their relevant brainspots by guiding their eye movements to focus on a specific point. This process can lead to the release of emotional tension and the processing of unresolved trauma or distressing experiences. By maintaining a dual attunement to both your internal experiences and external cues, I facilitate the exploration and integration of these intense emotional states. Brainspotting is known for its ability to rapidly access and process deep emotional material. Brainspotting has been found to be effective in treating various conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related symptoms.
Gender affirming therapy provides clients with a safe and supportive space to explore and affirm their true self. Clients are able to delve into the complexities oftheir gender identity, navigating the challenges and triumphs that come with self-discovery and acceptance. I worked collaboratively with clients to address the psychological, emotional, and social aspects of gender identity. We focus on fostering a deep understanding of your unique experiences, struggles, and aspirations, while also exploring ways to alleviate any distress or discomfort related to gender dysphoria. Gender affirming therapy encourages clients to live authentically and helps to foster a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance.
By implementing a trauma-informed approach, I aim to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that prioritizes trust, empowerment, and collaboration. This approach involves recognizing the prevalence and impact of trauma, understanding its various manifestations, and acknowledging the potential triggers that may arise during the therapeutic process. In my practice, I strive to cultivate a sense of safety and predictability, ensuring that my clients feel respected, heard, and validated throughout their healing journey. By promoting a trauma-informed perspective, I aim to be mindful of the potential triggers and sensitivities that may arise during therapy sessions, offering my clients a sense of control and choice in their treatment process. Additionally, I work to integrate various evidence-based techniques and interventions that are tailored to meet the unique needs and experiences of each individual, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience as they navigate their path toward healing and recovery.