LCSW, 4 years of experience
Frequently rebooked
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I am licensed in both Virginia and Tennessee and I love to work with clients that are interested putting in the work to improve their lives, whether that is facing tough memories and strong emotions, or examining their values and learning how to modify their behaviors in order to create the change they want to see.
First and foremost-our initial session is not indicative of later sessions. Our first session is focused primarily on me getting to know you. What is going on in your life? What have your experienced in the past? Have you ever had therapy before? There are also questions about your physical health, substance use, and family history. This information is gathered to help me develop a good understanding of who you are, what you've been through, and how you cope. It also helps us rule out any physical conditions or environmental factors that may be contributing to your symptoms. How we feel is influenced by multiple factors and we need to discuss not only what is going on inside your mind, but also what is going on around you. Once this information gathering is complete, we move forward with developing a treatment plan that is focused on what you hope to achieve in therapy and our future session will be focused on making that happen!
I am going to show up for you and hold space for you to process what's going on in your life without judgement. I try my best to truly understand you and I will ask you if I am getting right. If not, I will ask you to help me understand.
As a certified grief informed professional, I feel most connected to clients that have experienced loss and are looking for a safe place to process their grief. My clients often feel overwhelmed, uncertain, and need someone to walk beside them on their journey.
CBT is a tried and true method for addressing the unhelpful thoughts that inhibit our healing and growth. I love to use concepts from CBT to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an effective treatment method for trauma and is my preferred tool when helping people overcome pain and negative beliefs.
Loss of any kind is disruptive to our lives and looking at challenges through a grief lens can help with perspective and understanding. Our grief needs to be honored, whether the grief is a result the death loss of a significant person or pet, or a non-death loss of something else important in our lives.
I use Motivational Interviewing to collaborate with my clients on better understanding themselves by recognizing their strengths and connecting with their personal values.