Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In our first session, my priority is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can begin to feel heard, seen, and supported—without pressure or judgment. We’ll take time to get to know each other. I’ll ask some gentle questions to learn more about what brings you to therapy, what you’re hoping for, and any concerns or questions you may have. You’re always welcome to share at your own pace—there’s no rush or expectation to disclose anything you’re not ready to. We’ll also go over important aspects of therapy, such as confidentiality, boundaries, and what our work together might look like. This is a space where you can express your goals, values, and preferences, and where your cultural identity and lived experience will always be respected. Above all, the first session is about building trust. My approach is collaborative and client-centered—you are the expert on your life, and my role is to support you in ways that feel meaningful and empowering to you.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my core strengths is the ability to create a grounded, compassionate space where clients can begin to feel emotionally safe—often for the first time. I recognize how vital trust is, especially for those who carry trauma, and I approach each client with gentleness, consistency, and attuned presence. I am mindful of power dynamics and strive to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in respect and emotional safety. I bring deep empathy and emotional presence to my work. I listen not only to what is said, but also to what is felt, silenced, or held in the body. My person-centered orientation allows me to truly meet clients where they are, validating their lived experiences while holding space for their vulnerability, uncertainty, and growth. I view every therapeutic relationship through a culturally responsive lens. I hold an awareness of how race, culture, gender, sexuality, class, and systemic oppression shape each person's story—and I commit to ongoing self-reflection and unlearning of bias. I don’t make assumptions; instead, I invite curiosity, cultural context, and open dialogue. I am skilled at holding space for the complexity and messiness of human experience. Many of the clients I work with carry layered identities, intersecting traumas, and histories shaped by systems of harm. I offer a non-pathologizing space where clients can make meaning of their stories—where contradictions are welcomed, not corrected.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

My ideal clients are individuals who are navigating the effects of trauma, life transitions, identity exploration, or emotional overwhelm and are seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to heal. I work well with people who value a collaborative therapeutic relationship rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and trust. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship challenges, I support clients who are ready to explore their inner experiences, even if the path forward feels uncertain. I especially enjoy working with clients who: Have experienced trauma (developmental, interpersonal, intergenerational, or systemic) and are looking for a gentle, validating space to heal at their own pace. Are exploring questions around identity, belonging, and self-worth—including BIPOC individuals, immigrants, LGBTQ+ clients, or those navigating bicultural, multicultural identities or in interracial relationships. May feel disconnected from themselves or others and are seeking to build insight, self-compassion, emotional resilience and self-discovery. Value authenticity and are open to mindful, person-centered exploration that honors their values, strengths, and lived experience.