In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Your first session is a time for us to get to know one another and begin building a safe, respectful therapeutic relationship. I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, so we move at a pace that feels manageable and supportive for you. During this session, I will gather background information to better understand your experiences and current needs. This may include reviewing your medical and psychiatric history, previous treatment experiences, important aspects of your childhood, any trauma you feel comfortable sharing, current life stressors, and the symptoms or concerns that are most affecting you right now. You are always in control of what you share—nothing is forced or rushed. I may also complete an initial clinical assessment, which can include a preliminary diagnosis if appropriate. This helps guide treatment planning and ensures care is ethical, informed, and aligned with best practices. Diagnoses are discussed openly and collaboratively. Equally important, this session is about fit. Not every therapist is the right match for every client, and that’s okay. We will focus on developing rapport, clarifying your goals, and making sure you feel heard, respected, and comfortable. We will also review treatment expectations, including session structure, frequency, scheduling, and any logistical questions you may have. Together, we’ll begin outlining a plan that supports your goals and fits your life. My goal for the first session is for you to leave feeling understood, informed, and hopeful, with a clear sense of what working together could look like moving forward.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my greatest strengths as a therapist is my ability to help clients reach those meaningful “aha” moments—the moments when things finally click, patterns become clear, and change begins to feel possible. I don’t just help clients understand what is happening in their lives, but why it’s happening and how to respond differently moving forward. I am skilled at gently challenging unhelpful thought patterns while remaining compassionate and supportive. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of negative thinking, emotional overwhelm, or self-doubt. I work with clients to identify these patterns, understand their origins, and replace them with healthier, more effective ways of thinking and coping. Another key strength I bring to therapy is motivation with accountability. I believe growth happens when insight is paired with action. I encourage clients to apply what we discuss in session to real-life situations, while offering tools, structure, and encouragement along the way. Change is not about perfection—it’s about progress, consistency, and self-compassion. I am also deeply attuned to the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe enough to be honest, curious, and vulnerable. Clients often describe me as direct yet supportive, warm but grounded, and able to balance empathy with honesty. I meet clients where they are, while still helping them move toward where they want to be. Finally, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience into the therapy space. As a mother, caregiver, and lifelong learner, I understand the complexity of juggling responsibilities, navigating systems, and carrying emotional weight while still showing up for others. This perspective allows me to work with clients in a way that is realistic, respectful, and deeply human. My goal is always to help clients feel more empowered, self-aware, and equipped—so they can improve their overall quality of life and create meaningful, lasting change.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

My ideal clients are individuals, couples, and families who are ready—or becoming ready—to create meaningful change in their lives. You do not need to have everything figured out to begin therapy. Curiosity, openness, and a willingness to reflect are often enough to get started. I work well with clients who want to better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, especially those who feel stuck in patterns of negative thinking, emotional overwhelm, or self-doubt. Many clients seek therapy for depression, anxiety, low motivation, low self-esteem, or a general sense of feeling “off” or unsure of how they feel. Others know something needs to change but are not yet able to clearly name what that change looks like. My ideal clients may be navigating: • Anxiety, depression, or mood changes • Low self-worth or confidence • Chronic stress, burnout, or life transitions • Relationship or family conflict • Difficulty with motivation, follow-through, or emotional regulation • Past or ongoing emotional pain or trauma I am especially well-suited for clients who are seeking nonjudgmental support while also being open to honest reflection and personal accountability. Therapy with me is active and collaborative. Clients who benefit most are willing to engage in the process, practice skills outside of sessions, and examine their role in patterns that may be affecting their relationships or emotional well-being. I also work well with clients who need support navigating mental health treatment—whether you are new to therapy, returning after a difficult experience, or feeling unsure about what kind of help you need. We move at a pace that respects your readiness while still encouraging growth. Above all, my ideal clients are people who want to improve their quality of life, even if they feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted. You do not have to be confident or fully motivated to begin—just willing to show up. This May Be a Good Fit If You: • Are experiencing anxiety, depression, or emotional overwhelm • Feel stuck in negative thinking patterns • Struggle with motivation, confidence, or self-esteem • Want support navigating relationships or family dynamics • Are a caregiver or balancing multiple responsibilities • Want a therapist who is supportive, direct, and nonjudgmental • Are open to reflection, skill-building, and personal accountability While I bring advanced clinical training and a PhD into the therapy space, I lead first with empathy, humility, and humanity. I understand pain not only through education, but through lived experience. I have walked through trauma, grief, loss, and major life transitions, and I know how isolating those experiences can feel. I also know that healing is possible—even when it doesn’t feel that way at first. Because of this, I approach therapy with deep compassion, patience, and respect for each client’s journey. I do not believe in judging where you are or rushing where you’re going. I believe in honoring your story, helping you make sense of it, and supporting you as you move forward with intention and strength. Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to pretend, perform, or have it all together. You can show up as you are. Together, we work toward clarity, healing, and growth—at a pace that feels both safe and meaningful. You are not broken. You are human. And with the right support, change is possible.