New to Grow
I have been a therapist for 32 years now. I feel so fortunate that I found as a young adult this carreer in counseling and mental health and have been able to enjoy my work and help others along the way. For much of my career I have been working with clients suffering from chronic mental illness. But I also have extensive experience running my own private practice, and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community, sexual abuse survivors, folks who struggle with depression and personality disorders.
Although I am required to share a few pieces of important information about the therapeutic process, our sessions together, expectations and standard limits of confidentiality, I try to keep this to only the first few minutes of the first session. Once those requirements are complete, my first question is always, "What brings you in?" It's extremely important to me to spend that whole first session letting the client tell me in their own words why their path has led to this moment.
I work to create an environment where clients feel genuinely heard and understood. I bring a sense of curiosity and gentleness to my work, meeting clients where they are with compassion. When appropriate, I incorporate humor to help ease tension and strengthen rapport. I am also intentional about supporting clients in finding their own motivation for making meaningful, healthy changes. My goal is to help clients feel both supported and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, survivors of sexual abuse, and individuals living with chronic mental health conditions. These communities hold a meaningful place in my work and in my heart. It is deeply rewarding to witness clients’ growth—to see their self‑esteem strengthen and their sense of empowerment expand. Being part of the process of equipping clients with tools that genuinely support them, and watching them apply those tools in their everyday lives, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role as a therapist.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As I build rapport, gather client history, and gain a clear understanding of the reasons a new client is seeking support, I begin exploring their preferences for incorporating cognitive‑behavioral techniques into our work. Some clients appreciate structured, tangible tasks and homework between sessions, while others prefer a less task‑oriented approach. Some value space for reflective listening more than direct guidance, whereas others seek practical cognitive tools they can apply in real time throughout their daily lives. I strive to tailor my approach to each client’s individual needs, preferences, and comfort level.
Eclectic
Although my primary orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, my years of clinical experience have shown me that drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities allows me to best serve a diverse population. No two clients are alike, and I believe their treatment should reflect that. By integrating approaches tailored to each individual’s needs and goals, I aim to create a therapeutic process that is both flexible and effective.