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

Your first therapy session is an important step, and I want you to feel as comfortable and supported as possible when you walk in. This initial meeting is not about having everything figured out or knowing exactly what to say—it’s simply a conversation where we get to know each other, explore what brought you here, and begin building a foundation for the work ahead. During our first session, I’ll invite you to share what’s been weighing on you, what you’ve been experiencing, and what you hope to gain from therapy. You don’t have to tell your entire story right away. You can share as much or as little as you’re ready for. My role is to listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and help you feel grounded as we talk. This is a judgment-free space where your emotions, experiences, and perspectives are respected and valued. We’ll also talk about what therapy with me looks like—my style, how I support clients, and how we can work together in a way that feels right for you. I’ll explain the structure of our sessions, the types of approaches I may use, and how we can tailor our work to your goals, pace, and comfort level. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, express any worries, or share anything you feel unsure about. This session is truly for you. It’s normal to feel nervous, emotional, or even unsure of where to begin. Many clients start the session saying, “I don’t know how to start,” and that’s completely okay. I will guide the process and help the conversation flow naturally. More than anything, I want you to walk away feeling heard, supported, and hopeful—knowing that you don’t have to navigate your challenges alone. By the end of our session, we’ll have a clearer understanding of what brought you here and what you’d like to work toward. We’ll discuss next steps and begin shaping a direction that feels meaningful and manageable. Your first session is the beginning of a collaborative, healing process. You’ve already done the hardest part by deciding to take this step, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my greatest strengths as a therapist is my ability to create a space where clients feel truly seen, understood, and safe enough to be honest about what they’re going through. I try to bring a balance of empathy, warmth, and directness, which allows clients to feel supported while still being gently challenged to grow. I use a combination of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and emotional regulation strategies. These methods fit naturally with my personality and therapeutic style because they allow me to meet clients exactly where they are while offering structure, insight, and practical tools. CBT helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, giving them clarity and helping them shift patterns that no longer serve them. Person-centered therapy ensures that every session remains collaborative, client-led, and grounded in unconditional positive regard. My clients benefit from this blend because it creates a therapeutic experience that is both reflective and actionable. They gain insight into the “why” behind their emotions and behaviors, but they also learn skills they can use immediately in their daily lives. Whether they’re managing anxiety, healing from trauma, navigating relationships, or rebuilding self-worth, clients know they can rely on me to offer strategies that are practical, compassionate, and tailored to their unique needs. I also bring a strong ability to identify emotional patterns, connect the dots between past and present experiences, and help clients understand the deeper roots of their struggles. This helps clients feel validated and empowered while also giving them a roadmap for change. Ultimately, my strengths lie in my ability to blend emotional attunement with evidence-based guidance. My clients feel supported, understood, and equipped—and that combination makes the work we do together meaningful, effective, and transformative.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with clients who are ready to explore themselves on a deeper level—individuals who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, but who are open to understanding the patterns that have shaped their lives. Many of the clients I serve are navigating emotional stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, self-worth issues, or transitions that have brought old wounds to the surface. They are often people who have spent years taking care of everyone else while neglecting their own emotional needs, or who have learned to minimize their feelings because they were taught to be “strong” their entire lives. My ideal client is not perfect—they may feel uncertain, guarded, or even afraid of being vulnerable—but they show up because they want something to change. They are ready to be honest about their experiences, willing to explore the roots of their thoughts and emotions, and open to learning new skills that help them move forward with confidence and emotional clarity. I work especially well with clients who value a collaborative and compassionate approach. They appreciate having a therapist who listens deeply, challenges gently, and provides structure when needed. These clients are not looking for quick fixes; they’re seeking meaningful growth, emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of self. They want to understand why they react the way they do, learn how to break cycles of emotional overwhelm, and develop healthier ways of coping and connecting. Many of my clients are processing grief, trauma, intrusive thoughts, relationship insecurity, or long-standing patterns of people-pleasing and self-doubt. They are individuals who want to strengthen their boundaries, reconnect with their own needs, and build a more grounded emotional foundation. They may struggle with perfectionism, internalized criticism, or feeling like they’re constantly “pushing through,” even when they’re exhausted. Ultimately, my ideal client is someone who is ready to reclaim their voice, rediscover their inner resilience, and take meaningful steps toward healing. They may not have all the answers—and they don’t need to. They simply need to be open to the journey. Together, we create a space where real change can happen.