New to Grow
Hi there! I am glad you're here. I'm a Missourian turned Mainer who is fascinated by entering into the process of change with fellow humans. Over the last 9 years I've had the privilege of providing therapy in community mental health settings, working with folks from across the country and around the globe. I made the decision to add private practice as a part of my work with Grow, to provide accessible mental health care in new ways. When I'm not in a therapy session, you might find me chasing my toddler down the beach with a good cup of coffee in hand, singing, or making a corny joke.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In the first session I will ask you questions to understand more about your whole self- your unique desires, particular pains, and captivating story. Together we will start to develop a theory about how your problems started, what keeps them going, and what type of therapy might best suit your needs. The first session may also involve some additional screening measures or reflective exercises to learn more about your top concerns. On average I work with clients for 3-12 months, depending on your goals and progress. My mission is that you leave therapy with a sense of empowerment to integrate new strategies into your life, and a sense of how you would know it was time to seek therapy again in the future.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My deep respect for clients, and my holistic view of you as a person, are how I anchor my therapy practice. My goal is to help you embrace your life with courage. I've had the pleasure of walking with hundreds of people through that very process, and I whole heartedly believe it's possible for you.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Sometimes life hurts. Seeking help doesn't mean you're broken - it means you are human. There are many good reasons you might be considering therapy now, and I'm glad you are! Seeking treatment can be a life changing experience. These are some questions that might help you reflect on your needs: Are you feeling confused or out of control? Are you afraid that if others knew your story, they would blame or betray you? Do you blame yourself for horrible things you've experienced? Do you feel disconnected from the person you used to be? Do you feel as though you've already missed the boat- that it's too late to live a life of passion and fulfillment? These are some of the common themes folks are facing when we work together. I use warmth, gentleness, and candor to set the tone for sessions with clients. Therapy sessions are an alchemy you and I create together. There are many aspects of therapy that can be hard to quantify or put into words, but an important foundation is feeling understood and respected. That relationship sets the table for change! From there, therapy can help you feel better and function more like 'you' in your daily life. Therapy can transform your relationship with yourself, your emotions, and your thoughts. Therapy can bring deeper satisfaction and congruence in the important relationships in your life. Therapy can also make a lasting impact on the way you experience this big, beautiful world. I consider it an honor to be invited into your life and support your process of change. I'm ready to get started when you are! I look forward to meeting you if you schedule a first session.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I began using ACT 5 years ago after attending a foundational training program. The more I dig into it, the more I love the results for my clients. ACT is the core way I approach treating anxiety and depression, and related issues.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I completed CPT training in 2023, and became a registered CPT provider in 2024. I find this approach helpful for many people living with trauma symptoms, whether from a one time or long-term trauma. My role as a CPT provider is to share skills that empower you to transform you trauma symptoms, and find new ways to integrate your understanding of what happened and why.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Over my career, I have had the pleasure of working with clients from many countries, backgrounds, and personal experiences. I am particularly keen on understanding your unique identity, beliefs and values, and how those impact the life you envision for yourself. I am also committed to keeping an open stance to exploring how my own culture and biases through reflection, applying an anti-racist framework, and ongoing education. Primary influences on my learning in this area include Ibram X. Kendi, Irwin Ince, and Jemar Tisby. I am well versed in working with interpreters. If you are seeking therapy with an interpreter, please reach out to your insurance provider to see if they cover interpreter services.