I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Rehabilitation Counseling Psychology. I began my career working with severe trauma and persistent mental illness. This gave her a unique perspective on life and how quickly one can loose the life as we know it...and how wellness can suddenly elude us. To grieve loss and restore wellness, I believes a strong therapeutic relationship. I use a client centered approach in establishing rapport. Having worked in the most challenging neighborhoods of the inner city, I have seen the best and worst of human nature. What impressed me the most, is the inner strength I saw in people, under the most difficult of circumstances. It is this impression, this knowledge, that guides me to focus on an individuals’ capacity to overcome hardship, pain and despair. I use a holistic approach to therapy as I do not believe any one approach works for all, as each and every person is unique and different. I believe with compassion, care and empathy, one can be empowered to make the necessary changes to become more happy, fulfilled and to grow.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
After the initial intake or first session, we will determine the course of treatment together. I like to find out from you what your treatment goals are and take it from there. Whether that is to cope with loss, deal with trauma, life transitions or worsening anxiety or depression. I will provide the guidance and support for you to move forward
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I feel that the most important aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. That being said I am client centered and use a client centered approach to establish rapport. That means to me, it is important to focus on the value & dignity of all my clients. I firmly believe with compassion, care and empathy, one can be empowered to make the changes to be happy and fulfilled. I also believe there is not one method that works for all as each person is unique and different. I am holistic in my approach however often times I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy along with solution focused approaches with mindfulness to assist my clients in more effectively manage their thoughts & emotions. I am CBT & DBT trained.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have over 25 years of experience working in inner city mental health centers, clinics, colleges, hospital and outpatient treatment centers. I have a variety of work experiences working with individuals of all cultures, religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as gender preferences. I work with individuals, families and couples with issuing ranging from anxiety, depression, marital, divorce & separation, relationship/families, life transitions, substance abuse, grief and loss, gender identity, LGBTQ and trauma. I have extensive experience in crisis intervention and management . I am aware how trauma can elicit feelings, thoughts, and patterns of behaviors that cause one to be stuck and use a strength based model to help one move forward and to grow.