Licensed to practice in Tennessee and accepts 10 insurances. Specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Depression and 7 more.
(he/him)
New to Grow
I’ve been a social worker for 13 years and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past eight. I earned my bachelor’s degree in social work from Middle Tennessee State University and my master’s degree from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including inpatient mental health, substance use treatment, and individual therapy. In my work with both teenagers and adults, I primarily use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. My goal is to create a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel understood and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.
A first session is really just a conversation. Think of it as two people getting to know each other and making sure the fit feels right. I’ll usually start by asking what brought you in and what you’re hoping to get out of therapy—not in a pressured way, just to understand what life looks like for you right now. We’ll talk about your story at a pace that feels comfortable. You don’t have to have everything figured out or know exactly where to start; that’s part of my job. I might ask a few questions to help guide things, but you’re always in control of what you share. I’ll also explain how therapy works—things like confidentiality, how often we might meet, and what our work together could look like. Some people like structure, some prefer a more open flow, and we can shape the process around what feels best for you. By the end of the session, the goal isn’t to solve everything. It’s to make sure you feel heard, understood, and supported, and to give you a sense of what it’s like to work together. Most people walk out feeling a little lighter simply because they finally said things out loud.
I believe I would make an ideal therapist because people naturally feel safe opening up to me. I don’t rush to judge or fix; I listen to what someone is saying and what they’re not saying. I’m the kind of person who notices the small shifts in tone, the pauses, the moments someone’s eyes drop, and I treat those moments with care rather than pressure. I’m drawn to people’s stories, not out of curiosity but out of respect. I’ve always had a calm, steady energy that helps others feel grounded, even when they’re talking about things that feel chaotic or overwhelming. When someone shares something vulnerable with me, I hold it gently. I don’t shy away from hard emotions, and I don’t make people feel like they need to hide the messy parts of themselves.
Someonw who’s genuinely ready for change, even if they’re anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start. They’re open to exploring their thoughts and patterns, willing to try new skills between sessions, and able to reflect honestly on what’s working and what isn’t. They value a collaborative, down‑to‑earth therapeutic relationship where they feel supported, challenged, and empowered to build a life that feels more aligned with who they want to be.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT helps you notice the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so you can understand what’s keeping you stuck. It teaches skills for challenging unhelpful thinking patterns and trying new, healthier behaviors. The goal is to help you feel better by learning tools you can use in everyday situations.