New to Grow
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I am passionate about working with individuals and families who are ready to better understand themselves, build on their strengths, and create meaningful, lasting change. My ideal clients may be navigating crisis, life transitions, or ongoing challenges such as co-occurring concerns, and are open to exploring the root causes of what they’re experiencing while developing practical tools for long-term growth. I take a strengths-based approach, believing that each person already holds the foundation needed for success. Together, we identify and build on those strengths to move through obstacles with confidence and clarity. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Case Western Reserve University with a concentration in Drugs and Alcohol, and my Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Bowling Green State University. With over eight years of experience supporting children, families, and adults—including those involved in foster care, caregiving systems, and crisis situations—I am comfortable working with clients who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of their next steps. I especially enjoy partnering with individuals and families who are motivated to create change, even if they’re not quite sure where to begin.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, the focus is on getting to know you and creating a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. We’ll talk about what brings you in, what challenges you’ve been facing, and what you hope to gain from therapy. I’ll meet you where you are, using a mix of conversation, gentle questions, and (when appropriate) interactive or play-based techniques to help you express yourself in a way that feels natural. I use motivational interviewing to help explore your goals and build on your readiness for change, while also giving you space to process your experiences at your own pace. There’s no pressure to share everything right away—this is your time. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can be yourself. You can expect a balance of empathy, support, and even a little humor to help make the process feel more approachable as we begin working together.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My approach to therapy is rooted in a strengths-based, collaborative foundation. I believe each person already holds the capacity for growth, and I work alongside my clients to identify and build on those strengths to create meaningful, lasting change. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves and openly processing difficult experiences. With over eight years of experience, I bring strong skills in crisis management and de-escalation, allowing me to support clients through high-stress and overwhelming situations with calm and clarity. I have worked with a wide range of individuals—including children, families, and adults involved in foster and caregiving systems—which has strengthened my ability to adapt my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. I integrate motivational interviewing, play therapy, and talk therapy to help clients explore challenges, address underlying concerns, and move toward their goals. I value a balance of empathy and humor in my work, helping to make the therapeutic process feel approachable, engaging, and empowering.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I enjoy working with individuals and families who are ready to better understand themselves, navigate challenges, and create lasting change. My ideal clients may be experiencing crisis, life transitions, or co-occurring concerns, and are open to exploring the root causes of their struggles while building practical tools for growth. I use a strengths-based approach, helping clients recognize and build on what’s already working. With over eight years of experience supporting children, families, and adults—including those involved in foster care and crisis situations—I’m comfortable working with clients who feel overwhelmed but are motivated to move forward.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. I work with them to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and use practical strategies like behavioral activation and skill-building to support positive change. I also emphasize goal-setting and between-session practice to reinforce progress.
Couples Counseling
I have experience working with couples to improve communication, strengthen emotional connection, and resolve conflicts. I use structured approaches to help partners identify unhealthy patterns, develop healthier ways of interacting, and build skills such as active listening, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. I focus on creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where both individuals feel heard and understood.
Psychodynamic
I have experience using psychodynamic therapy to help clients explore how past experiences and unconscious patterns influence their current thoughts, emotions, and relationships. I focus on increasing insight by identifying recurring themes, exploring early relationships, and examining emotional responses within the therapeutic relationship. I provide a supportive space that encourages self-reflection and deeper understanding to promote lasting change.