New to Grow
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), based in the Philadelphia area. I have worked as an Outpatient Therapist in community mental health agencies for the past 11 years. As an LMFT, relationships are key to my practice. I strive to build a trusting, authentic relationship with compassion and warmth. I am passionate about helping individuals and families find ways to navigate challenges and build healthier relationships. I believe in taking a collaborative, strengths-based approach, tailored to meet your needs. I look forward to guiding you along your path of personal growth and healing.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Together, we will determine your main concern and talk about your hopes and expectations. Our first meeting is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and determine if I am a good match for your needs. You will get more information on how I work as a therapist and what is expected in the therapeutic relationship. Please ask questions! I value open and honest communication!
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My approach to therapy often involves humor, grace, and compassion. I show up fully as my authentic self in the hopes that this helps you feel safe doing the same. I always bring an element of playfulness and creativity to my work. Clients have described me as warm, nurturing, and patient. I think I'm funny, but my teen clients seem to disagree.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Life has many twists and turns that can leave you feeling lost, hopeless, and stuck. How are you managing these challenges? Maybe you know exactly what you would like to change, or maybe you simply feel that something needs to change. Maybe you aren't quite sure what to do next. Wherever you are in this moment, there is hope. I work with adolescents ages 13 and up who have experienced trauma, as well as those who struggle with ADHD. I also work with adults in all stages. I enjoy working with caregivers who are finding that their own past is impacting their parenting, or those who have children with high social and emotional needs. I have worked extensively with caregivers and children in the foster care system, as well as adoptive parents.
Family Therapy
A systemic approach is the core of my work as a therapist. I have worked with families who are experiencing relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, family conflict, and life transitions. Together, we will pinpoint the main difficulty your family is experiencing and work together to determine a path forward. I will guide you in identifying relationship patterns, developing new ways of relating to one another, identifying strengths and resources in your family, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving. Our work together will help your family make meaningful, positive changes.
Trauma-Focused CBT
Trauma is a highly distressing experience for both the individual and their loved ones. I have been using TF-CBT for the past 5 years to help children, adolescents, and their loved ones navigate the path to healing. In addition, I participated in a cohort focused on using TF-CBT to address racial trauma. We begin by creating safety and lowering distress. I will help you understand how trauma impacts you and your loved ones. When the person is ready, I will support and guide them through telling their story. There is high caregiver involvement in this process. Caregiver involvement is essential in creating a strong support network for the individual and ensuring that everyone is cared for during this difficult time.
Integrative
While family therapy and TFCBT are effective approaches on their own, I have found that people often need something additional to support their process. I frequently draw from my knowledge of attachment theory, ecopsychology, neuropsychology, play therapy, sandtray, and somatic practices. These approaches blend well with family work and allow for more effective trauma work.