New to Grow
I am a compassionate mental health provider dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence. I believe that healing begins in a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and understood. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship concerns, stress, and challenges related to motivation and personal growth. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted. Others are seeking deeper self-understanding or meaningful change. No matter where you are in your journey, I meet you with empathy, curiosity, and without judgment. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), grief therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients better understand their thoughts and emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and build confidence in their ability to move forward. The impact of our work together often includes: Increased emotional awareness and regulation Reduced anxiety, depression, or distress Healthier thinking patterns Greater self-compassion and confidence Improved decision-making and motivation The ability to process loss in a meaningful way A renewed sense of purpose and direction My goal is not simply symptom relief, but lasting growth. I strive to empower clients with practical tools and insight so they feel more in control of their lives, more connected to their values, and more capable of handling future challenges independently. Therapy is a courageous step. I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they heal, grow, and create meaningful change in their lives.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Starting therapy can feel both hopeful and nerve-wracking. My goal in our first session is to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and respected. Our first appointment is primarily about getting to know you and understanding what brings you to therapy. We’ll talk about: Your current concerns and what prompted you to seek support Important background information (personal history, relationships, stressors, mental health history) What you’ve tried in the past and what has or hasn’t helped Your goals for therapy There is no pressure to share everything at once. You are welcome to move at a pace that feels right for you. If you’re unsure where to start, I’ll guide the conversation with thoughtful questions. I’ll also explain how I work, including the approaches I use (such as CBT, grief-focused work, and Motivational Interviewing), confidentiality, and what ongoing sessions may look like. This is a collaborative process, so we’ll discuss what you’re hoping to gain from therapy and begin identifying initial goals together. By the end of the first session, you can expect to: Feel clearer about the direction of therapy Have an opportunity to ask questions Begin identifying practical next steps Leave with a sense of whether we’re a good fit Most importantly, the first session is about building connection and safety. Therapy works best when you feel supported and understood, and that foundation starts right away. Taking the first step is courageous, and I look forward to walking alongside you in the process.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What stands out about my therapeutic approach is the combination of professional expertise, cultural awareness, and lived experience I bring into the room. As a woman and a mother, I understand—both personally and professionally—the unique pressures, expectations, and strengths that can come with balancing identity, family, career, and community. I recognize the emotional labor many individuals carry, especially those who are used to being “the strong one” for everyone else. In our work together, you don’t have to hold it all alone. My approach is grounded in empathy, cultural responsiveness, and real-world practicality. I integrate evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), grief therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, while remaining sensitive to the impact of culture, race, family dynamics, generational patterns, and systemic stressors on mental health. Clients often share that they appreciate: Feeling deeply understood without having to over-explain cultural or family dynamics A balance of warmth and accountability A space where vulnerability is welcomed, not judged Practical tools they can apply immediately in their daily lives Honest, empowering conversations that promote growth As a mother, I also understand the complexities of parenting, partnership, and maintaining a sense of self while caring for others. I help clients explore boundaries, identity, burnout, and the pursuit of personal goals without guilt. The results of our work together often include increased confidence, emotional clarity, stronger boundaries, healthier coping strategies, and a renewed sense of agency. My goal is not just symptom relief, but helping you feel grounded, empowered, and aligned with who you truly are. Above all, I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported—while also being challenged to grow into your fullest potential.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I work best with individuals who are ready to better understand themselves and are open to growth—even if they feel uncertain or overwhelmed right now. You don’t have to have everything figured out; you just need a willingness to explore what’s going on beneath the surface. I am especially well-positioned to support clients who: Struggle with anxiety, overthinking, or constant self-doubt Experience depression, low motivation, or feelings of being “stuck” Are navigating grief, loss, or major life transitions Feel emotionally overwhelmed and want healthier coping strategies Are working through relationship stress or communication challenges Want to build confidence, set boundaries, and strengthen self-worth Feel ambivalent about change but know something needs to shift I work well with clients who appreciate a balance of compassion and structure. My approach is supportive and validating, while also helping you challenge unhelpful patterns and take practical steps toward change. If you are looking for therapy that is collaborative, goal-oriented, and focused on building real-life skills, we may be a good fit. Many of my clients share a common desire: they want relief from emotional distress, but they also want clarity, growth, and long-term change. They are ready to move from simply surviving to living with greater intention and resilience. If you’re open to honest self-reflection, willing to practice new tools, and motivated to create meaningful change—even at a gradual pace—I would be honored to support you.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
How I Use CBT in My Practice In our work together, I use an approach called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a practical, evidence-based form of therapy that focuses on the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Here’s what that looks like in practice: 1. Understanding the Thought–Feeling–Behavior Connection We explore how your thoughts influence how you feel and how you act. For example, certain patterns of thinking can increase anxiety, depression, or stress. Together, we identify these patterns and look at how they may be affecting your daily life. 2. Identifying Unhelpful Thinking Patterns Many people develop automatic thoughts that are overly negative, self-critical, or fear-based. I help you recognize these patterns and gently challenge them by examining the evidence and considering alternative perspectives. 3. Building Practical Coping Skills CBT is skill-based and solution-focused. I teach strategies you can use between sessions, such as: Stress management and relaxation techniques Problem-solving skills Emotional regulation tools Behavioral strategies to reduce avoidance Techniques to manage intrusive or anxious thoughts 4. Gradual Behavior Change Sometimes we work on changing behaviors that reinforce distress, such as avoidance, procrastination, or withdrawal. We create small, achievable steps to build confidence and resilience. 5. Collaborative and Goal-Oriented Work CBT is collaborative. We set clear goals together and regularly check in on progress. Sessions are structured but flexible, focusing on what feels most relevant and helpful to you. 6. Homework and Practice You may receive exercises or reflections to practice between sessions. These help reinforce what we work on and allow you to apply skills in real-life situations. Overall Goal My goal in using CBT is to help you develop tools that increase self-awareness, reduce emotional distress, and empower you to respond to challenges in healthier, more balanced ways. Over time, many clients find they feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Grief Therapy
Grief therapy is a supportive and compassionate space where we work together to process loss in a way that feels safe and manageable. Grief can arise from many experiences — the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, health changes, life transitions, or other significant losses. There is no “right” way to grieve, and no set timeline. Here’s how I approach grief therapy: 1. Creating a Safe Space for Your Story I provide a nonjudgmental space where you can openly express your emotions — whether that’s sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, numbness, or even relief. All reactions to loss are valid. We move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. 2. Understanding Your Unique Grief Process Grief looks different for everyone. Together, we explore how this loss has affected you emotionally, physically, socially, and spiritually. I help normalize common grief responses while also paying attention to your individual experience. 3. Processing Emotions and Meaning We gently work through difficult emotions and unresolved thoughts connected to the loss. This may include: Talking through memories and unfinished conversations Exploring feelings of regret or guilt Processing trauma related to the loss Making meaning of the loss in your life 4. Strengthening Coping Skills I provide practical tools to help manage overwhelming feelings, including grounding techniques, emotional regulation strategies, and ways to navigate anniversaries, triggers, and important milestones. 5. Supporting Adjustment and Identity Changes Loss often changes routines, roles, and identity. We explore how your life has shifted and work toward rebuilding a sense of stability and purpose while still honoring your connection to what was lost. 6. Continuing Bonds Grief therapy does not focus on “moving on” or forgetting. Instead, we explore healthy ways to maintain connection to your loved one or what you’ve lost, while also making space for healing and growth. Overall Goal My goal in grief therapy is not to take away your grief, but to help you carry it in a way that feels less overwhelming. Over time, many clients find that while the pain of loss remains meaningful, it becomes more integrated into their life story, allowing space for hope, resilience, and renewed engagement in life.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative, respectful approach that helps you explore your own reasons for change. Rather than telling you what you “should” do, I work alongside you to understand what matters most to you and to strengthen your motivation in a way that feels authentic and empowering. Here’s what that looks like in our work together: 1. A Collaborative Partnership MI is based on partnership. I see you as the expert on your own life. My role is to guide the conversation in a way that helps you clarify your goals, values, and ambivalence about change. 2. Exploring Ambivalence It’s completely normal to feel “stuck” or torn about making changes. You may see both the benefits and drawbacks of changing a behavior. We openly explore both sides without judgment, helping you sort through mixed feelings in a supportive way. 3. Evoking Your Own Motivation Instead of persuading or pressuring, I ask thoughtful questions that help you identify your own reasons for change. Research shows that change is more sustainable when it comes from your internal values rather than external pressure. 4. Strengthening Confidence We identify your strengths, past successes, and personal resources. By highlighting what’s already working, we build confidence in your ability to make meaningful changes. 5. Respecting Autonomy You are in control of your decisions. MI honors your autonomy. If you’re not ready to make a change, we explore what readiness might look like and what would need to happen for you to feel prepared. 6. Supporting Behavior Change When you feel ready, we develop small, achievable steps toward your goals. This might include changes related to mental health, substance use, relationships, health habits, or other life areas. Overall Goal My goal in using Motivational Interviewing is to help you feel empowered, understood, and supported as you move toward changes that align with your values. Many clients find that this approach reduces shame and increases clarity, confidence, and momentum.