Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Taking the step to schedule your first therapy session is an important and courageous decision. Whether you’re feeling nervous, uncertain, hopeful, or a combination of all three, I want you to know that your feelings are completely normal. The first session is not about being “perfect” or having all the answers. It’s about starting a conversation — your story, your experiences, and your hopes for therapy — in a safe, welcoming space. The first session is designed to help us get acquainted and set the foundation for the work we’ll do together. Think of it as a conversation where you’re in the driver’s seat, and I’m here to guide, listen, and support you along the way. This is the time to tell me what brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from our work together. There is no right or wrong way to share — just being present and open to the process is enough. During this initial session, I’ll ask questions to better understand your history, your experiences, and the patterns that may be affecting your life. This might include discussing past challenges, previous experiences with therapy, relationships, work, family dynamics, or other areas of life that are important to you. The goal is not to overwhelm you with questions, but to gather enough information to guide the next steps of your journey in a way that feels personalized and meaningful. We will also talk about your goals for therapy. Some clients come in with a clear sense of what they want to work on, while others are still exploring what changes might be possible. Both approaches are completely valid. Together, we’ll identify what matters most to you and set intentions that feel realistic and actionable. These goals will guide our work, but they are flexible — therapy is a process, and goals can evolve as you gain insight and perspective. A key part of the first session is also discussing what you can expect from therapy. I’ll explain my approach, the methods and tools we might use, and how sessions are structured. I’ll answer any questions you have about the process, confidentiality, or anything else on your mind. Many clients feel a sense of relief simply by knowing what to expect and understanding that therapy is a collaborative process — we work together, and you have a voice in every step. You may feel nervous or worried about opening up, and that’s completely normal. Some clients are concerned about saying the “wrong” thing or revealing something too personal. Please know that this is a safe space. My role is to provide support, understanding, and guidance — not judgment. Vulnerability is part of the healing process, but you only share what you feel comfortable sharing. You are always in control of how much or how little you disclose. The first session is also a chance to start building a connection. Therapy is most effective when there is trust and rapport, so this session is about feeling comfortable with me, getting a sense of how we’ll work together, and beginning to establish a safe, collaborative relationship. I want you to leave feeling like this is a space where you can be yourself, explore your thoughts and feelings honestly, and start moving toward positive change. In practical terms, the session is relaxed and casual. You don’t need to prepare a speech, bring a list, or have all your concerns perfectly organized. Simply come as you are — ready to talk about what matters to you and open to the possibility of growth. Some clients find it helpful to think ahead about a few things they want to focus on, but it’s not required. The most important thing is your presence and willingness to engage in the process. After we discuss your history and goals, I’ll outline a plan for next steps. This might include suggestions for strategies, exercises, or ways to practice new skills between sessions. We may also explore how frequently sessions should occur and discuss scheduling that supports your needs. This planning is collaborative and always adaptable to your progress, comfort, and lifestyle. Finally, the first session is an opportunity to ask questions. You can ask me anything — about my background, my approach, what therapy looks like week to week, or even questions about your own feelings and reactions during the session. My goal is for you to leave feeling informed, reassured, and clear about what therapy with me will involve.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

Having worked as a therapist for nearly three decades, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside hundreds of clients as they navigate life’s challenges, transitions, and moments of growth. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what makes therapy effective and meaningful — and what makes clients feel truly seen, supported, and empowered. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to meet clients where they are. I understand that every person comes to therapy with a unique story, perspective, and set of challenges. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing, and I never assume I know exactly what someone needs without first listening and understanding their experiences. Whether you arrive feeling anxious, guarded, overwhelmed, or uncertain, I create a safe, compassionate space where you can be yourself. I believe that true change begins with feeling understood and accepted, and I prioritize that foundation in every session. Empathy and compassion are central to my work. I have a natural ability to sense and respond to what a client is feeling, even when it’s unspoken. Clients often describe feeling “heard” and “validated” when they meet with me, which helps them open up and engage in the therapeutic process. Compassion doesn’t just mean kindness; it means seeing your struggles, honoring your experiences, and believing in your capacity for growth — even when you may doubt yourself. Alongside empathy, experience is a critical strength I bring to therapy. Nearly 30 years of working in both community mental health and private practice has given me insight into a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship difficulties, workplace stress, and family dynamics. This breadth of experience allows me to recognize patterns, identify root causes, and help clients develop strategies that are tailored to their unique situations. I know what works, what might need adjusting, and how to guide people toward tangible, measurable progress. Another strength is my practical, solution-focused approach. While therapy is a place to explore feelings, history, and self-reflection, it is also a space for actionable growth. I help clients create clear goals and a structured plan that is achievable and realistic. By combining insight with practical tools, clients can see progress in ways that feel concrete and meaningful, which reinforces motivation and hope. I also believe in humor and human connection as part of the process. Life can be heavy, and therapy doesn’t need to be only serious. When appropriate, I bring lightness and shared laughter into sessions, which helps clients feel more comfortable, less rigid, and more open to exploring difficult topics. This approach often helps people relax, build trust, and engage more fully in the work of therapy. Collaboration is another strength I prioritize. Therapy is not about me “fixing” you — it’s about walking alongside you, exploring challenges together, and empowering you to make choices that align with your values and goals. I work with clients to co-create the therapeutic plan, check in on progress, and adjust strategies as needed. This partnership helps clients feel ownership over their growth and reinforces that they have the tools to continue making progress outside of sessions. I bring a holistic perspective to therapy. I understand that mental health is not isolated from the body, relationships, and environment. When working with clients, I consider emotional, social, and physical factors that influence well-being. This integrated view allows me to guide clients toward strategies that improve their overall quality of life, not just symptom reduction. Flexibility and adaptability are strengths I’ve honed over years of practice. No two clients are alike, and challenges rarely follow a predictable path. I adjust my approach based on what each person needs in the moment — whether it’s more structured guidance, reflective conversation, skills training, or support in processing complex emotions. Clients often say they feel “seen as a whole person” because I can navigate both depth and practicality, balance support with challenge, and meet them where they are emotionally. Finally, one of my greatest strengths is my genuine belief in people’s capacity for growth. I’ve seen countless clients overcome obstacles that initially felt insurmountable, reclaim their joy, and build more fulfilling lives. This belief is not abstract — it’s grounded in experience and fueled by the hope that therapy can be a catalyst for meaningful, lasting change. I bring that belief into every session, offering encouragement, guidance, and support while trusting in your resilience and ability to move forward.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

When someone begins looking for a therapist, it usually means they’ve reached a point where carrying things alone feels too heavy. My ideal clients are people who may not have it all figured out — and that’s okay. They come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward, but they’re open to exploring, learning, and making changes that can bring more balance and joy into their lives. People navigating anxiety and worry Many of my clients struggle with anxiety. Some describe it as a constant sense of unease that makes it hard to relax, sleep, or focus. Others feel stuck in “what if” thinking — worrying about the future, replaying conversations, or fearing they’re not doing enough. Anxiety can show up in the body too: racing heart, restlessness, stomach issues, or a tight chest. My ideal clients are those who are ready to understand their anxiety and learn ways to calm their minds and bodies. They may not believe it’s possible yet, but they’re willing to try. People living with depression or feeling emotionally stuck I also work well with clients who describe life as heavy, dull, or colorless. Depression can show up as exhaustion, loss of interest in things that once brought joy, difficulty getting out of bed, or feeling disconnected from others. My ideal clients aren’t necessarily in crisis — though sometimes they are — but they know something needs to change. They’re open to exploring their feelings, building small steps of progress, and rediscovering what makes life meaningful. People struggling with addiction or recovery Because of my extensive training and certification in addictions, many of my clients are individuals who are either struggling with substance use or are in recovery and want continued support. My ideal clients in this area are those who are ready to face the truth about how alcohol, drugs, or other behaviors are impacting their lives and relationships. They may feel shame, guilt, or fear — but they’re also brave enough to reach out for help. I meet clients in this space with zero judgment, only compassion and practical strategies for change. Couples facing conflict, disconnection, or life transitions I work with couples who are tired of fighting the same battles, avoiding each other, or feeling like roommates instead of partners. Some are trying to rebuild trust after a betrayal, while others simply want to improve communication and feel close again. My ideal couples are those willing to be honest, take responsibility, and learn new ways to connect. Therapy with me isn’t about choosing sides — it’s about helping both partners feel heard and find healthier ways to navigate their relationship. Women facing unique challenges As a woman and therapist, I connect deeply with women who are juggling multiple roles — partner, parent, professional, caregiver — and feel pulled in too many directions. My ideal female clients may be struggling with burnout, identity questions, or the pressure to “hold it all together.” They might be navigating divorce, motherhood, career transitions, or simply learning how to prioritize themselves. Therapy becomes a space where they can take off the mask, speak freely, and rebuild their sense of self-worth. People learning boundaries and self-care Many of my clients come to me because they give so much to others that there’s little left for themselves. They have trouble saying no, feel guilty for setting limits, or end up in one-sided relationships. My ideal clients in this area want to learn how to communicate their needs more clearly, develop assertiveness, and protect their emotional energy without feeling selfish. People who value a holistic view of healing My ideal clients understand that mental health isn’t just about “thoughts in the head.” They may already be curious about how lifestyle, relationships, spirituality, or physical health affect emotional well-being — or they’re open to exploring that with me. I enjoy working with people who see healing as a mind–body–spirit journey and want to create lasting changes, not just quick fixes. Who may not be the best fit I believe in honesty, so I’ll also share who I may not be the best therapist for. If someone is seeking highly specialized treatment for active psychosis, severe eating disorders, or conditions requiring medical supervision, I will likely refer them to trusted providers with that expertise. Similarly, if someone is looking for a therapist who gives constant advice or “tells them what to do,” we may not be the right fit — my style is collaborative, not prescriptive.

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