I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. Many of my clients have commented they like my insight and non-judgmental approach when discussing their issues. In my experience, I have observed many are struggling to make changes in their lives because they received the message they are not good enough. However, I am determined to provide a safe environment for all therapeutic participants by ensuring they can embrace themselves and recognize they are good enough. I am a U.S. Navy Veteran who has personal experience with some of the hardships faced when families are separated due to long deployments. In addition, I have worked with men and women who have recently been released from incarceration. I have experience and training with domestic violence and other traumas as well. Clients tell me that I have a calm demeanor and approachable character which help them connect with me.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first session, I will be trying to get to know you and ask questions about the issues that bring you to therapy. My goal is to get information, provide some immediate hope that things can get better or help you accept the situation you are in, embrace it, and establish some therapeutic goals.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
My approach to therapy is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidence-based approach that helps participants examine how their thoughts impact their feelings and behaviors. I encourage clients to use mindfulness activities to exam their thoughts in order to find solutions that will work for them. When working with couples, I prefer the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples connect on an emotional level. My experience has been that couples often get distracted from each other through responsibilities that exist outside of the couple’s relationship such as work, children, friendships, and family. When couples decide they need therapy to make repairs to their relationship, my goal is the help them reconnect emotionally.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
If I am describing my biggest strength, it is that I am very empathetic. In addition to standard therapy, I have trained extensively in couple's counseling and trauma. For client's dealing with trauma, I am trained to provide EMDR if that is needed.