LCSW, 15 years of experience
New to Grow
Hello! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor, and I’ve spent the last 15 years dedicated to helping individuals from all walks of life. I have expertise in addiction treatment, but I also have experience supporting those facing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, and the everyday stressors that life can throw our way. I’ve had the privilege of working in various settings, including correctional facilities and residential treatment programs, as well as in homes with at-risk families. Creating a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space is my top priority because I want you to feel comfortable starting wherever feels best for you. I believe in taking a real-life approach, drawing from my own personal experiences and professional background to help you navigate your unique struggles. Your journey is incredibly important to me, and I genuinely care about your success. I hope to not only assist you but also honor the privilege of sharing in your story and guiding you along the way. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your own life, and together, we can collaborate as a team to explore your goals and challenges. My work is an extension of who I am; if I can bring even a little light to your life or help shift your perception in a positive way, then everything I do is worthwhile. I’m really looking forward to getting to know you and embarking on this journey together!
In our first session together, I’d like to create a warm and welcoming space where we can get to know each other better. I genuinely want to hear your story, so I’ll spend some time asking you about your background and experiences. This will help me understand who you are and what brings you here today. Of course, I encourage you to ask any questions you may have—this is a collaborative journey, and your input is essential! Together, we’ll explore your personal needs and preferences, so I can tailor our time together in a way that feels right for you. As we move forward, I’ll invite you to share what you hope to achieve through our sessions. This will allow us to set personalized goals that resonate with you. Based on our discussion, I’ll begin to develop a custom treatment plan that reflects your unique path and aspirations as we embark on this therapeutic journey together. I’m truly looking forward to working with you!
I truly believe it’s essential for you to feel comfortable being yourself and starting our journey exactly where you want to begin. The therapeutic bond we create is incredibly important, and your comfort is key to feeling safe throughout this process. I strive to be down-to-earth and laid-back in my approach, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere where you can express yourself freely. I also love to incorporate humor into our sessions—laughter can be a wonderful tool for connection and healing! My goal is to create a nonjudgmental space where you feel completely at ease, so you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
I welcome anyone who is ready to work through their challenges and open to exploring new possibilities. My ideal clients are those who are willing to embrace the journey with an open mind. I focus on building a strong therapeutic bond so that you feel genuinely comfortable in our space to share your thoughts and feelings. I’m here to walk alongside you, both in the light and in the darker moments, celebrating your successes and providing you with the tools you need when things get tough. My goal is to help you create a path toward achieving what you truly want in life, so that you can leave our sessions feeling fulfilled and happy with your progress. I’m excited to support you on this journey and to witness your growth!
In therapy sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to their emotional distress. We work together to recognize how these thoughts influence feelings and behaviors, allowing for a better understanding of specific challenges. Through techniques like cognitive restructuring, we develop healthier thinking patterns and coping strategies.
In therapy sessions, I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop essential skills for managing intense emotions and improving interpersonal relationships. We focus on four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. By teaching clients mindfulness techniques, they learn to observe and accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Distress tolerance skills help them cope with difficult situations without resorting to harmful behaviors. Emotion regulation strategies empower clients to understand and manage their emotions effectively, while interpersonal effectiveness skills enhance their ability to communicate needs and set boundaries in relationships.
In therapy sessions, I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients explore and resolve ambivalence about making changes in their lives. This client-centered approach involves active listening and open-ended questions, allowing clients to express their thoughts and feelings about their behaviors and the desired changes. I guide them in identifying their intrinsic motivations, exploring the pros and cons of change, and setting achievable goals. By fostering a non-judgmental and supportive environment, MI encourages clients to enhance their commitment to change and strengthens their confidence in taking actionable steps towards their goals.
In therapy sessions, I utilize Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to concentrate on a client’s strengths and solutions rather than their problems. We collaboratively identify specific goals and envision what a better future looks like for them. Through targeted questioning, such as the "miracle question," I help clients recognize past successes and resources they can draw upon to facilitate change. The focus remains on small, achievable steps that lead toward their desired outcomes, fostering a sense of empowerment and optimism as clients build on their skills and resilience to create solutions in their lives.