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

Our first session is about getting a real sense of whether we’re a good fit. I want to understand what’s bringing you here, what you’ve already tried, and what you’d like to be different. I’ll ask direct questions to get a clearer picture of what’s really going on, and you’re welcome to ask me anything about how I work or what to expect. By the end of the session, we should both have a sense of whether it makes sense to move forward. If it’s not the right match, that’s completely okay. I’ll help you think about next steps or point you toward someone who may be a better fit. I’d rather be honest upfront than waste your time or money. You don’t need to have everything figured out before we start. You do need to be open, willing to do the work between sessions, and ready for direct, honest feedback.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

My greatest strengths are being direct, honest, and genuinely believing in your ability to grow. Many people tell me they chose to work with me because I don’t sugarcoat things and I’m willing to name what others might avoid. They want someone who will hold them accountable while still being supportive, and that’s exactly how I work. I’ll validate what you’re feeling while also helping you look at the facts when emotions and reality don’t line up. If I hear an “I can’t” that’s really rooted in fear or avoidance, I’ll name it with empathy, not judgment. My approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, drawing from ACT and motivational interviewing to support meaningful, sustainable change. I focus on what actually works. You’ll leave sessions with practical tools you can use, not just things to think about. Clients often say I create space for honesty without criticism. I’ll challenge you when it matters and remind you that growth is uncomfortable, but you don’t have to do it alone. You’re a person, not the name of a condition. While diagnoses can be useful for context, they aren’t explanations for staying stuck or opting out of change. My work focuses on understanding patterns, building skills, and taking responsibility for what’s within your control, even when things feel hard.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with adults who are ready to take an active role in their healing. My long-term clients are often working through trauma, struggling with boundaries, navigating major life transitions, or feeling stuck in patterns they can’t seem to break. They appreciate honesty delivered with compassion. They want to be challenged respectfully, follow through between sessions, and value authenticity over perfection. They’re willing to look at the hard stuff if it leads to real change. I’m probably not the best fit if you’re looking for constant reassurance without action, want a therapist to fix things for you, or prefer focusing more on labels than growth. If you want real feedback, practical tools, and a therapist who will push you toward progress without judgment, we’ll likely work well together.