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

As your therapist, I will begin by introducing myself and creating a comfortable, nonjudgmental space for you to feel at ease. I will explain the therapy process and ensure you understand the confidentiality and privacy guidelines. You’ll have the opportunity to share what brought you to therapy, any challenges you're facing, and what you hope to achieve. I may ask questions to better understand your history and current situation. This will help me tailor the sessions to your needs. I will explain my approach to therapy and what you can expect from future sessions. Your therapist will explain Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing harmful thought patterns and behaviors that may have formed due to trauma. I will also talk about the frequency of sessions and how progress will be measured. This can vary depending on the type of therapy (e.g., CBT, trauma-informed, etc.). The therapist will listen without judgment, and ask about how you’re currently feeling, including any patterns of thinking or behaviors that may have developed as a result of the abuse. CBT helps you recognize unhelpful beliefs (e.g., self-blame, fear) and work on replacing them with healthier, more balanced perspectives. CBT focuses on teaching practical tools to manage distressing thoughts, such as grounding techniques, mindfulness, and reframing negative thoughts. As your therapist, I may introduce you to exercises that can be practiced outside of the session to strengthen your emotional coping skills. There will be a focus on creating a safe space where you feel heard and respected. I will likely check in about how you're feeling throughout the session. Based on our discussion, I may begin to develop a treatment plan that reflects your goals and priorities. This can evolve over time. These might include managing anxiety, increasing self-esteem, addressing guilt or shame, or learning to cope with flashbacks or triggers. We will collaborate on how to gradually work through difficult memories or emotions, building resilience and self-compassion along the way. The first session typically lasts about 50 minutes to an hour. At the end of the session, I will discuss the next steps and schedule the follow-up sessions. You’ll be encouraged to share your personal experience, including any trauma related to domestic violence. You don’t have to go into any detail you’re not comfortable with, and the pace will be set by you. Based on the info

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

My ability to build trust quickly has enabled many clients to open up about difficult issues in the early stages of therapy. Using trauma-informed approaches, I help survivors of domestic violence rebuild their self-esteem and sense of control over their lives. I am known for my calm demeanor, and am particularly skilled at helping clients navigate difficult emotions. One of my clients recently shared . I felt heard and supported in ways I never had before, which has made a huge difference in my healing process.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

As a therapist, my ideal client is someone who has experienced childhood and adult trauma, including domestic violence. I specialize in supporting individuals who have navigated or are currently navigating the complex emotions and challenges that come with being a survivor of abuse. I work with clients to help them process their experiences, rebuild their sense of safety, and empower them to move forward in their healing journey. I understand the deep impact that domestic violence can have on mental health, self-worth, and relationships. With a trauma-informed, empathetic approach, I offer a safe space where clients can feel heard and supported. My therapeutic work integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused techniques, and mindfulness strategies to help survivors regain control over their lives and move toward emotional resilience. I am committed to creating an environment that fosters trust, understanding, and healing, supporting survivors as they reclaim their autonomy, build healthy boundaries, and work through the lasting effects of trauma.