New to Grow
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have a Master's Degree in Social Work from Aurora University and a Master's Degree in International Social Justice and Public Policy from Loyola University. I have been working in the field of mental health and advocacy since 2006. I believe that therapy should be a place where you feel comfortable and heard and walk away with practical solutions to improve your life and the lives of those around you.
In the first session, clients can expect a supportive and collaborative conversation focused on understanding what brings them to therapy and what they hope to gain from the process. We will explore current concerns, relevant history, and any immediate stressors while also beginning to identify goals for treatment. This session is also an opportunity to ask questions, discuss what therapy may look like moving forward, and determine whether it feels like a good fit. My priority is creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported from the very beginning.
My strengths as a therapist include my ability to integrate evidence-based approaches such as CBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and strengths-based work. I tailor treatment to each client’s needs, helping them build insight, improve emotional regulation, and develop effective coping strategies to support long-term change.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges. My ideal clients may be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, life transitions, or difficulties in relationships and family dynamics. I also support individuals who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward but are open to gaining insight and making meaningful change. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, focusing on helping clients recognize and build upon their existing resilience, skills, and supports. I aim to create a safe and supportive space where clients can better understand their experiences, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward healthier patterns and improved emotional well-being.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, improve emotional regulation, and develop healthier coping skills. I use CBT to support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and self-esteem issues. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to each client’s individual needs and goals.
Couples Counseling
I use couples therapy to help partners improve communication, rebuild trust, manage conflict, and strengthen emotional connection. My approach is supportive and collaborative, helping couples better understand relationship patterns and develop healthier ways of relating to one another.
Motivational Interviewing
I use motivational Interviewing to help clients explore ambivalence, increase motivation for change, and build confidence in reaching their goals. My approach is supportive, nonjudgmental, and collaborative, helping clients identify personal strengths and make meaningful, lasting changes.
Trauma Informed Care
I use a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes safety, trust, collaboration, and empowerment. I work to understand the impact of past trauma on current functioning and support clients in building coping skills, emotional regulation, and resilience at a pace that feels safe and respectful to their needs.
Strength-Based
I use a strengths-based approach that focuses on identifying and building upon each client’s existing resilience, skills, and resources. I support clients in recognizing their abilities, fostering confidence, and using their strengths to navigate challenges and work toward meaningful goals.