(she/her)
New to Grow
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from New Jersey City University, where I built the foundation for my understanding of social dynamics and human behavior. Driven by a passion for helping others, I went on to obtain my master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, which equipped me with the skills needed to address complex social and psychological issues. I further advanced my education by earning a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Saint Elizabeth University. During my doctoral studies, I distinguished myself academically and developed a deep commitment to understanding and treating mental health disorders. I completed my predoctoral clinical training with Rutgers University Correctional Health Care and Park Ave Psychotherapy and Neurofeedback, where I provided outpatient services to individuals with diverse mental health needs. My compassionate approach and clinical skills were strengthened through working with a wide range of populations facing significant psychological challenges. I then completed postdoctoral training with the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections, where I provided psychological assessments, psychotherapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to incarcerated individuals. This experience enhanced my ability to navigate complex clinical environments with empathy, professionalism, and clinical precision. Throughout my professional journey, I have focused on mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma. I remain committed to ongoing learning and professional growth, including earning licensure as both a Clinical Social Worker and a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, which has expanded my ability to support clients with co-occurring and multifaceted needs. Prior to my current role, I served as the Director of Specialty Group Homes, where I oversaw programs for children with co-occurring disorders, further strengthening my leadership skills and clinical expertise in high-need populations.
In your first session, you can expect a relaxed and supportive environment where we focus on getting to know you and what brings you to therapy. We’ll talk about your current concerns, any challenges you’ve been facing, and what you’re hoping to get out of the process. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable—there’s no pressure to have everything figured out right away.
I consider myself a nontraditional therapist, bringing a lighthearted, authentic, and engaging energy into sessions. While I take my clients’ concerns seriously, I don’t believe therapy has to feel overly rigid or intimidating. I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves—one that allows for humor, openness, and real conversation. At the same time, I am deeply invested in helping clients work through their concerns in a meaningful and productive way. I balance this approachable style with a strong focus on growth, accountability, and skill-building. My goal is for clients to feel both supported and challenged—leaving sessions not only feeling heard, but also equipped with the tools and insight needed to make lasting, real-life changes.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges, and who are looking to develop practical coping skills while gaining a deeper understanding of themselves. I work well with individuals who may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally disconnected, but are open to exploring their thoughts, behaviors, and patterns in a supportive environment. I particularly support clients navigating transitions such as school changes, early adulthood, relationship shifts, or career uncertainty. I also work effectively with clients who want to improve communication, set healthy boundaries, and build confidence in managing day-to-day stressors. My approach is well-suited for clients who are motivated—or even cautiously open—to learning new skills and applying them outside of sessions. I strive to create a collaborative and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable processing challenges while also working toward concrete, achievable goals.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have experience utilizing this treatment method as a structured yet flexible approach to supporting clients in achieving their therapeutic goals. In my practice, I incorporate this method by tailoring interventions to each client’s individual needs, ensuring that techniques are both practical and relevant to their daily experiences. I focus on helping clients build insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while also equipping them with concrete skills they can apply outside of sessions.