Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida since 2003. Previously, I was licensed in Illinois. I attended the University of Chicago for my BA and Loyola University of Chicago for my MSW. I have worked in multiple settings, including healthcare, the Veterans Administration, adoption, and general outpatient mental health and relationships. I provide a non-judgmental, supportive environment for clients to address their issues.
In our initial sessions, we will focus on what to expect from therapy, what you want to work on, and your background. I will give you an opportunity to ask whatever questions you have about the process or about my qualifications and experience beyond what is in my bio.
I have been in the field for over 30 years and have experience with multiple types of clients. I have raised biological children, adopted children, stepchildren, children with ADHD and also have an adult daughter with major special needs. I am accepting of everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, and background.
I believe that all of us have strengths that sometimes we are not even aware of. I have found that these strengths are important to build on in therapy.
I have found that the roots of some traumas can be traced back to problems with attachment. In order to have healthy relationships, it is important to recognize your attachment style. In therapy, you can learn healthy styles of attachment.
I have done family counseling for over 30 years. Even the most troubled parent-child relationship has the potential for improvement. I have found that working on communication can greatly improve parent-child relationships.
I have done counseling with couples for over 30 years. I use a variety of techniques with couples, most importantly fair fighting and communication.
Many clients benefit from psychoeducation. Many times issues are caused because the client is unaware of the dynamics of mental illness, child development, or a specific disease process. Educating them on what to expect can greatly impact their understanding and acceptance.