Hi, I’m Kelsey! I deeply value authenticity and bringing my humanness into every session. Building trust is one of the most critical aspects of therapy—it can truly make or break your experience - a perspective I understand from being both a client and a therapist. I place a lot of importance on empathy and self-awareness for both myself and my clients. I often utilize humor in my sessions, (sometimes dark humor) and we may laugh our way through a mindfulness exercise or a guided meditation. My goal is to create a judgment-free safe-zone where my clients feel validated and supported, fulfilling the most basic of human rights: to be believed and feel seen.
"Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone.” - Fred Rogers I tend to work with young women and girls ages 13 to 70-something, who may need guidance, problem-solving, and assistance with prioritizing themselves after spending a lifetime putting others’ needs first. Contrary to popular belief, I do not have all the answers. I believe you do - you may just need some assistance in sifting through (or hip-checking) those negative thoughts and core beliefs blocking your way. The goal of therapy is to end. And I trust that someday, you will tell me when you’re ready for that. Someday there will be a moment where you look back on the leaps and bounds you’ve made from where you once were, with a happy sigh of relief, and a feeling of being able to better manage the many things life throws your way. Our first session, we will discuss your current symptoms, a history of your experiences, and develop a few targeted goals to work towards. I often say this session is a "bird's eye view" of your life thus far, as we dive deeper in subsequent sessions. The first few sessions are focused on building rapport, as a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for meaningful progress. Overall, therapy tends to be as rewarding as the effort clients are willing to invest in it. Along the way, there’s often laughter, and sometimes, tears, as I encourage my clients to really identify and feel their feelings in a safe space. Many of my clients have varying goals, and I adapt and tailor my approach for each of my clients. Above all, my goal is for clients to leave our sessions feeling genuinely seen, heard, and understood—free from judgment.
While my experience and education are absolutely necessary to do this work, I believe my personal lived experience has greatly enhanced my ability to build strong therapeutic connections and be a more effective therapist. When it comes to my strengths, I pride myself on being a genuine and calming presence, (people have often told me my voice makes them feel calm) a strong advocate for survivors of violence, a kind person who feels a lot, being able to think on my feet, and pretty hilarious according to my toddlers. I hold a deep respect for the impact therapy can have on lives—a truth I’ve been fortunate to witness both in my clients' journeys and in my own, as therapy has been an essential part of my self-care for my entire life. As a mother of three, I bring unique insights and strengths to building trust and connection with my clients. In my spare time, I like to read, rearrange the artwork in my house, and watch medical dramas on TV.
I frequently work with survivors of physical and sexual abuse, and pride myself on having spent my career advocating for survivors of violence. If you have been struggling with shame, anxiety, guilt, negative self-worth, grief, or depression, particularly if related to a traumatic experience, I would love the opportunity to work with you and see how we can expand your tolerance for the challenges you face, and help you manage the symptoms that are causing distress or interfering with your ability to function.
An experienced therapist will use a variety of methods during the first several sessions. As we get to know each other, I will learn what you find helpful, as well as when you may benefit from a more targeted approach. I have specialized experience working with survivors of sexual assault/trauma, as well as veterans struggling with substance abuse issues. I utilize solutions-focused therapy using a blend of methods like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, psychoanalysis, and attachment theory. I treat adults, children, and families who have experienced trauma, grief, loss, depression, ADHD, and anxiety.
If you are experiencing issues with self-image, self-confidence, body dysmorphia, or low self-esteem, I will utilize a Feminist Therapy approach to analyze how our society has negatively impacted your ability to see yourself in a more positive light. We will connect how your thoughts impacts your feelings and behaviors when it comes to self-image. I believe it is radical to love yourself in a world that teaches you not to. Together we can work towards more self-love and a better relationship with your body!
We will explore how your past experiences in childhood and adulthood have a conscious and unconscious impact on your day-to-day functioning.
Psychoeducation provides information on diagnosis, how common symptoms present, and how to learn about your mental health in order to cope with it. Sometimes that awareness - the acknowledgement of it - helps move you towards healing.
In exposure therapy, we will learn how to "Ride the Worry Hill" of panic when it comes to the debilitating condition of OCD and the compulsive behaviors/rituals that come with it.