LICSW, 15 years of experience
New to Grow
Experienced clinician ready to help you! I have been practicing since 2006 and am clinically licensed since 20I0. I’m here to support you in making this journey meaningful and personally valuable. I offer a listening ear, a gentle but direct approach, and provide insightful feedback for you to move forward in creating the life you desire. We often think that we cannot control how we fell into maladaptive thinking patterns. This is not true! A greater self-understanding can lead to meaningful change in how one relates to themselves and others. Personally, I am a multicultural individual born in the US, who was raised by immigrant parents. I had to navigate multiple conflicting cross-cultural dynamics growing up, so if you woul like support in that area, I get it.
Beginning therapy is a courageous and important step, and I commend you for taking it. Our first session will be focused on gathering a multi-dimensional history. Keep in mind, you are welcome to share what you feel comfortable with and can pass on what you are not yet ready to bring up. I approach therapy with collaboration and compassion, always tailoring our work to fit your unique experiences and goals.
I emphasize open, transparent communication as the foundation for a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. Through active listening and direct feedback, I aim to foster meaningful reflection and understanding, partnering with you throughout the process. When addressing difficult or emotionally complex topics, I maintain an empathetic presence to help you feel grounded and supported.
I’m best equipped to serve those going through life transitions, anxiety, depression, aging, chronic disease management, and concerns related to multicultural backgrounds, and trauma. I strive to be attuned to others’ cultural, historical, and systemic factors that may influence each client’s healing journey. I am open-minded and recognize and respect clients' diverse backgrounds and personal values. Our work will remain flexible and responsive to ensure it continues to align with your evolving needs. My role is to support you with practical tools, clinical guidance, and a steady presence as you navigate both progress and difficulty on your path forward.
CBT has shown to help clients identify the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I work collaboratively with clients to examine automatic thoughts, challenge cognitive distortions, and develop healthier, more balanced thinking patterns. We also focus on skill-building, such as emotion regulation, problem-solving, and coping strategies. CBT is goal-oriented and typically short- to mid-term in duration, making it accessible and measurable for clients and families. I regularly use progress monitoring tools to assess effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed. Clients often report an increased sense of control, improved mood, and greater ability to manage challenges as a result of CBT work.
I utilize DBT’s key skill areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, tailoring them to the client’s specific needs. I employ validation strategies to build trust and create a nonjudgmental space, while also encouraging change through behavioral techniques and goal setting. By maintaining a balance of acceptance and change, I can support you by building insight, improving emotional regulation, and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
I strive to do all of my work using a trauma informed lens, and take this responsibility very seriously. Whether we are exploring the impact of trauma on the nervous system, the cycle of anxiety, or the brain’s role in chronic pain, I find that providing clear, relatable information empowers clients to feel more in control of their experiences. I often incorporate visuals, metaphors, and client-centered discussions to ensure concepts are accessible and meaningful. Psychoeducation also lays the groundwork for other interventions, fostering insight, motivation, and a strong therapeutic alliance. My approach is guided by an understanding of how trauma can shape nervous system responses, relationships, and core beliefs.
Personally, I am a multicultural individual born in the US, who was raised by immigrant parents. I had to navigate multiple conflicting cross-cultural dynamics growing up, so I get it. I strive to be attuned to others’ cultural, historical, and systemic factors that may influence each client’s healing journey. I am open-minded and recognize and respect clients' diverse backgrounds and personal values.
Psychodynamic therapy effectively helps you explore how past experiences, unconscious patterns, and early relationships can influence current thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I can collaborate with you to become more aware of internal conflicts and recurring relational patterns. To use psychodynamic therapy effectively, it's important to take a curious, reflective stance that helps one uncover unconscious motivations and unresolved conflicts that may be shaping their current struggles.