I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of dedicated practice in mental health, and my mission is to help individuals unlock their fullest potential by creating lasting change in their lives. My background spans a wide range of settings, from community-based work with children and disabled adults to providing therapy in psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice. With a double major in Visual Arts and Psychology from the University of North Carolina -Asheville and a Master’s in Social Work from East Tennessee University, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and creativity to my practice.
In your first session with me, you can expect to feel heard, respected, and empowered. I’ll take the time to understand your unique situation, your goals, and the challenges you're facing. We’ll discuss how I can best support you and begin creating an actionable plan that aligns with your needs. My therapeutic approach is rooted in warmth, humor, and authenticity, ensuring that you feel comfortable and ready to make progress from the very beginning.
As an LCSW, my greatest strengths lie in my ability to connect with clients on a deeply human level. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors without fear of criticism. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, as well as a solutions-focused framework, to help you tackle challenges head-on. But it’s not just about the techniques—it’s about meeting you where you are and encouraging you to see your own potential for growth and change. I understand that life isn’t always easy, and change can be difficult. But I firmly believe that everyone deserves to live a life they’re proud of. Whether you’re looking to set healthy boundaries, gain clarity in your relationships, or build self-confidence, I am committed to walking alongside you on that journey. I won’t tell you what you want to hear, but I’ll always tell you what you need to hear with honesty, compassion, and care. If you’re ready to take control of your life and make meaningful change, I’m here to be your guide, cheerleader, and unwavering support. Together, we’ll create a plan that allows you to live with purpose, confidence, and joy. Let’s take that first step toward the life you’ve always wanted.
I have used CBT with patients and clients in order to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors by focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions, allowing them to develop coping mechanisms to manage mental health issues like anxiety and depression through techniques like cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation, often involving "homework" exercises outside of therapy sessions to practice these new skills.
I have utilized DBT individuals; to teach specific skills to manage intense emotions, improve interpersonal effectiveness, tolerate distress, and ultimately change problematic behaviors,
I have incorporated Compassion Focused therapy to help individuals cultivate a sense of self-compassion by actively addressing negative self-criticism and shame, often by utilizing techniques to activate the "soothing system" in the brain, allowing people to respond to themselves with kindness and understanding, similar to how they might care for a loved one in need; it is particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues stemming from harsh self-judgment.
I am client centered and like to meet my clients where they are; in order to do so I like to have an eclectic approach for therapy session; drawing from various theoretical perspectives and techniques, and tailoring treatment plans to each individual client's specific needs by combining elements from different therapy schools, instead of relying solely on one particular method.
I assist clients in identifying and building solutions to their problems by concentrating on their strengths and desired future state, rather than dwelling on the details of their past or current issues; it emphasizes positive change by asking clients to envision "life without the problem" and actively work towards achieving specific goals.