LCSW, 40 years of experience
New to Grow
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 45 years of experience. I am certified as a trainer in Youth Mental Health First Aid. Most of my work has been in outpatient treatment but I also worked in various settings which include residential treatment, child protective services and school social work. Working in a variety of settings with multi-disciplines has led me to appreciate that there are many facets that make us who we are. I see my role as a therapist is to help bring all these aspects together yet keep what we value at the forefront. My favorite inspiration lies in the saying, "People will forget what you say but they will never forget how you made them feel". I aspire to help you feel validated while you navigate life's challenges. One of my greatest professional accomplishments has been to start an Aevidum Club at a school which aims to reduce the stigma of mental health. I believe that partnering in a no judgement zone is key to fostering trust. When not doing therapy, I love spending time with my husband, two daughters and our dog. Cooking, planting flowers and going to our annual beach trip are some of my favorite stress relievers. I am here to partner with you on your journey of change and reflection.
In your first session with me, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where your comfort is the priority. We'll begin by discussing what brings you in and explore your goals, concern and any questions you may have about the process. This session is also a chance for us to get to know each other and determine if we're a good fit. I'll explain how I work, what you can expect from therapy, and together we will lay the foundation for your personal growth. There is no pressure to share everything at once- this is your space, and we'll move at a pace that feels right for you.
One of my greatest strengths is my ability to view things in context and from a larger perspective. Possessing strong critical thinking skills allows me to help you put the pieces of the puzzle together and help you to be unstuck. My ability to communicate and to empathize are an asset to the therapeutic process. I aim to assist you from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset using cognitive behavioral interventions. Together we explore fears, negative thought patterns that can help you get on the other side and reach a desired outcome. Recognizing what we can and cannot control while defining realistic and reasonable expectations for ourselves as well as others is one approach that will allow for growth. I consider myself a very down-to-earth person offering constructive feedback that allows you to reflect and to identify where you want to be.
Change is never comfortable, but it is where growth begins. If you are reading this then you may be ready for change. I am here to assist with problems that include Parent/Child Relationships, ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Depression and Trauma. If you are someone who is looking to refine something that isn't working, I invite you to pause and think about your own personal change process. I am here to help you see that something isn't working as well as it could and that a small adjustment can make a big difference. What do you notice about your reactions to change. Do big emotions surface when the familiar becomes the unfamiliar? Sometimes we encounter internal or external pushback which is normal. I am here to help you to identify the beliefs that drive those thoughts so you can approach change with curiosity and reflection. If you are someone who is open to self-reflection than you are a good candidate for therapy. My goal is to promote independence, ownership and a voice by giving you the tools to think, feel and respond thoughtfully to change. Therapeutic conversation can spark transformation.
Helping to work on grief, role disputes, life transitions or interpersonal deficits, exploring how relationships affect your mood and visa versa.