New to Grow
As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting trauma survivors as they navigate the emotional and relational challenges that shape their lives. My work centers on helping individuals reconnect with themselves, rebuild trust in others, and cultivate a sense of safety, meaning, and possibility. My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by a deep respect for each person's lived experience. I integrate Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and, when appropriate, Eye Motion Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). This blend allows me to tailor treatment to the unique needs of each client, addressing both longstanding wounds and more recent stressors with care and intention. Whether someone is working through the impact of trauma, navigating relationship patterns, or seeking greater emotional clarity, I aim to create a space where healing feels accessible and sustainable. My goal is to help clients move toward a fuller, more grounded, and more fulfilling life-one shaped not by the past pain, but by renewed resilience and self-connection.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
The first session is always a getting to know you session and establishing rapport. The first question I frequently ask is: Can you tell me what is happening that you are seeking mental health treatment at this time? I will ask questions around your history and find out about the symptoms you are experiencing. I will also ask questions about your personal history : your family background, medical history, and current lifestyle. I will then ask you: If our sessions together are successful together, what would be different in your life? From there we will collaboratively create a treatment plan that will assist you in reaching the goals you hope to achieve from treatment.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
With nearly two decades of clinical experience, my work as a mental health therapist has been shaped by both advanced training and the profound responsibility of supporting a community through extraordinary trauma. Practicing in Sandy Hook, CT at the time of the mass shooting deeply informed my understanding of human resilience, the complexity of traumatic stress, and the importance of grounding therapy in compassion, presence, and evidence‑based care. My approach integrates several trauma‑focused modalities, allowing me to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs. I am trained in EMDR and Trauma‑Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, two of the most effective interventions for processing traumatic memories and reducing the emotional intensity they carry. These methods provide structure and clarity for clients who feel overwhelmed by the past or uncertain about how to move forward. A major pillar of my work is mindfulness. With over 100 hours of formal mindfulness training, I help clients develop the capacity to tolerate emotional distress, reconnect with their bodies, and cultivate a steadier internal foundation. This emphasis on mindful awareness not only supports trauma recovery but also empowers clients to navigate daily life with greater stability and self compassion. My commitment to ongoing learning led me to expand my therapeutic toolkit to include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Attachment based Trauma Therapy. ACT helps clients build psychological flexibility-learning how to live in alignment with their values even pain or fear shows up. Attachment focused work allows us to explore deeper relational wounds that often shape how clients experience themselves and others, creating space for healing at the core level. Across all modalities, what truly defines my approach is the combination of clinical expertise, trauma informed sensitivity, and a grounded presence shaped by real world experience. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe, understood, and supported as they reclaim their sense of agency and rebuild their lives with strength and meaning.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I want you to know that my work as a therapist is grounded in trauma-informed care, and I specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with low self-esteem, persistent guilt or shame, and the painful belief that they are not enough. Many of the clients I work with feel stuck when making life decisions, have difficulty expressing their needs or finding their voice, or feel overly shaped by the expectations and dynamics of their family of origin. My goal is to help you understand where these patterns come from, how they've protected you in he past, and how they may be holding you back now. Together, we'll work toward strengthening your sense of self, developing confidence in your own choices, and building the internal freedom to move forward in life with clarity and purpose. I believe deeply in your capacity to grow, to define who you are on your own terms, and to create a life that reflects your values and strengths.
Attachment-based
I like to explore one's attachment style and how it has an is impacting a client's current functioning in how they view themselves and their relationships with others. The goal is to improve self-esteem and build healthy, trusting relationships; resulting in improved mood and reduced anxiety.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use ACT in my work with clients in order to guide them in learning how to tolerate difficult emotions without avoiding or fighting them, while creating plans of action that align with the client's personal values.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use CBT to assist a client in identifying and challenging negative thoughts that drive uncomfortable emotions and problematic actions. The goal is to shift the thinking so that emotions become tolerable and actions are more appropriate.
EMDR
I like to use EMDR for single critical trauma incident's-such as car accidents. I was trained in this model while working in Sandy Hook during the time of the school shootings and found it highly effective in reducing the strong emotions and other symptoms associated with a traumatic event.