My first practice was for four years in child and adolecent clinical social work as I entered my career in 2008. I have since been a school social worker for 12 years. As a clinician, educator, school employee, and parent, I have the ability to understand a variety of perspectives and systems. I am reliable, fully engaged, and genuinely care about the people with whom I work.
I discuss two basic options for the first session; a thorough intake/assessment process or the weaving in of personal history through anecdotal and immediate topics that the client can provide. I leave this up to them and guide them through the process. They can expect that I will be present and flexible in my approach.
I have experience in working with children and families in numerous capacities and can provide knowledge and guidance to help them navigate school systems, disabilties, family conflict, and socialization. I understand the evaluation process, goal setting, and service delivery of individualized education plans (IEPS) and have crafted many 504 plans.
When conducting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) via telehealth, I create an engaging and interactive environment that helps clients feel connected and actively involved in their therapy, even in a virtual setting. I incorporate tools that help clients track their moods, behaviors, and thoughts in real-time. There are many methods that CBT allows for- and can be adapted for all ages and abilities. I incorporate therapeutic games that help clients develop essential CBT skills, such as emotion regulation, problem-solving, and challenging negative thoughts
I guide clients through mindfulness practices that help foster a deeper connection with the present moment. Each session is tailored to meet the individual needs of the client, focusing on stress reduction, emotional regulation, and cultivating self-awareness.
I provide psychoeducation that empowers families to navigate the complexities of special education and children's disabilities. Through secure, virtual meetings, I offer tailored guidance on understanding diagnostic information, developing effective advocacy strategies, and accessing support services. I help parents and caregivers build practical skills to collaborate with schools, ensure their child's needs are met, and foster their child's growth and well-being. By breaking down complex concepts into clear, actionable steps, I equip families with the knowledge and tools they need to advocate effectively for their children’s educational and developmental needs.
In my telehealth therapy sessions, I provide trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a safe, virtual space where clients can begin their journey. I guide individuals through evidence-based techniques designed to address the impact of trauma on thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Each session is tailored to the client's unique experiences, helping them process and reframe traumatic memories, challenge negative beliefs, and develop healthier coping strategies. I create a compassionate environment that fosters trust and empowerment, supporting clients in regaining control over their lives and moving toward lasting peace.
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help people explore and resolve ambivalence around change. Through our secure video sessions, I create a collaborative, non-judgmental space where clients can reflect on their values, goals, and the barriers they face. By using open-ended questions, affirmations, and reflective listening, I guide clients in discovering their own motivations for change and developing actionable steps to move forward.