(she/her)
New to Grow
I'm a licensed clinical social worker and addiction specialist with 15+ years treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. My research focuses on how Black women experience mental health differently, why diagnostic bias happens in clinical settings, and what effective, culturally grounded therapy looks like. I hold a doctorate in social work and teach at the university level while maintaining my private practice here in North Carolina.
Your first session lasts about 60 minutes. We'll talk about what brought you in, what you hope to change, and what matters most to you right now. I'll ask questions to understand your history, your current situation, and your strengths. You'll get a clear sense of how I work, what therapy with me looks like, and whether we're a good fit. I'll explain confidentiality, fees, and what happens next. Most importantly, you'll leave knowing exactly what to expect.
I specialize in helping women, college students, and other clients from marginalized communities who've been misdiagnosed or dismissed by previous therapists. I use evidence-based approaches grounded in your actual life, not generic protocols. My teaching background means I explain things clearly, without jargon. I'm direct about what's working and what isn't. I treat the whole person, not just symptoms. I show up on time, remember what you tell me, and take your goals seriously.
I am best positioned to serve individuals who are seeking a supportive, culturally responsive, and collaborative therapeutic space to navigate life’s challenges, improve emotional wellness, and foster personal growth. I work well with clients who are motivated to better understand themselves, develop healthier coping strategies, and create meaningful change in their lives, even if they are unsure where to begin. My practice is especially supportive for individuals experiencing: Anxiety, stress, and overwhelm Depression and mood-related concerns Grief, loss, and life transitions Relationship and family challenges Burnout, emotional exhaustion, and caregiver stress Trauma and adverse life experiences Self-esteem and identity concerns Academic, professional, or leadership-related stress Women’s mental health and wellness concerns College and graduate student stress, including academic pressure, adjustment challenges, time management, identity development, and work-life-school balance
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach that helps clients increase psychological flexibility and develop healthier relationships with their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. In my practice, I integrate ACT with culturally responsive, strengths-based, and person-centered approaches to support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, stress, relationship concerns, and identity-related challenges.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as an evidence-based and goal-oriented treatment approach that helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In my practice, CBT is commonly used to support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem, relationship concerns, and challenges related to emotional regulation and coping.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) as an evidence-based treatment approach primarily designed to support individuals who have experienced trauma and trauma-related symptoms, including PTSD, anxiety, shame, guilt, and negative self-beliefs. In my practice, I use CPT to help clients process traumatic experiences, identify how trauma has impacted their thoughts and beliefs, and develop healthier, more balanced perspectives about themselves, others, and the world.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I provide culturally sensitive and culturally responsive therapy that recognizes the importance of each client’s cultural identity, lived experiences, values, beliefs, and social context in the healing process. In my practice, I strive to create an inclusive, affirming, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel seen, heard, respected, and empowered.
Motivational Interviewing
I utilize Motivational Interviewing (MI) as a collaborative, client-centered, and evidence-based approach that helps individuals explore ambivalence, strengthen motivation, and build confidence toward meaningful change. In my practice, MI is especially helpful for clients who may feel uncertain, stuck, overwhelmed, or conflicted about making behavioral, emotional, or lifestyle changes.