I have been doing clinical counseling for 25 years, and unlike most providers, I have a doctorate degree in counseling. I believe that the extra education helps me to provide more thorough, informed, and helpful feedback for clients. I currently provide therapy on a broad range of issues including trauma, anxiety, substance abuse and mood disorders. I am also comfortable working with sexual, gender, and eating issues. I have experience as well with neurodivergence and autism spectrum clients. My passion in a clinical setting involves working with trauma and dissociation, in particular clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder. I believe in giving you tangible feedback and practical solutions. I intend to demystify the process of counseling so that you can truly benefit from your work. In terms of my own self-care I enjoy walking outdoors as a means of reconnecting with nature. Recently, I rediscovered tennis, and have been playing doubles with a local group twice a week. I also recently started playing ping pong and pickleball.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
My approach involves creating a caring and trusting environment where honesty and hard work can lead to healing. I believe that the expression of emotions is the path to growth, and that creating an environment where those emotions can be brought forward is my role in the process. I believe in encouragement, finding the 'positives', and promoting balance.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
Trauma-focused, feminist therapy will help you determine how your past is impacting your present. I utilize an honest, straightforward, and direct approach to dismantle your self-defeating behaviors.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have been on the journey of recovery for 25 years, so your struggle will be fully understood. Current clients have expressed their comfort sharing their 'dark places' because I provide an environment of non-judgement and safety. I spent multiple years being exposed to clients with neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental issues. I understand that emotional repression and childhood trauma are precursors to mental health challenges.