New to Grow
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), licensed in Connecticut, New York, and Florida—and I truly believe that we are all more than our symptoms, our struggles, or any one moment in our lives. As the founder of SHIFT Your Journey ® Mental Health Counseling, I take a holistic, person-centered approach to therapy. That means I see you as a whole person—not just through the lens of anxiety, trauma, or burnout. I consider the mental, emotional, physical, cultural, and even spiritual pieces that make up your story. With years of experience walking alongside clients through change and healing, I draw from evidence-based practices like CBT and DBT, while always keeping your unique experiences and values at the center of our work. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not yourself lately, I’m here to offer a space that’s grounded in compassion, curiosity, and real, practical tools. Together, we’ll reconnect you with your strengths, your voice, and the life you want to build.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, the focus is on getting to know each other and creating a space that feels safe, respectful, and supportive. I’ll ask about what’s bringing you in, what you’ve been going through, and what you hope to gain from therapy—but there’s no pressure to have it all figured out. This is your time, and we move at your pace. We’ll also go over a few important things to help you feel informed and comfortable. This includes discussing confidentiality—what it means, your rights, and the limits to it (like safety concerns). I’ll walk you through my practice policies, such as session structure, cancellation policy, communication between sessions, and any other logistics that help make our work together clear and smooth. If you’re new to therapy or returning after some time, I’ll make space for questions and check in to see what’s most important for you right now. Whether you're feeling anxious, unsure, or just relieved to be starting, know that this first session is about connection, clarity, and setting a foundation for healing.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
One of my greatest strengths as a therapist is my ability to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted. I bring warmth, presence, and cultural awareness into the room, which helps clients feel comfortable being their full selves—without fear of judgment or pressure to "have it all together." I’m deeply intuitive and attentive, often able to pick up on what’s beneath the surface. Clients have shared that they feel a deep sense of trust and ease in our work together, which allows us to explore even the most complex or painful parts of their experience. I take a holistic view of healing—looking beyond just symptoms to consider your environment, your story, your relationships, your culture, and your goals. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, but I tailor everything to fit who you are, not just what you're dealing with. Most importantly, I see therapy as a collaborative journey. I believe in my clients’ inner strength, even when they’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, and I’m committed to walking alongside them as they reconnect with their power, purpose, and peace.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I’m best positioned to support individuals who are navigating life transitions, experiencing burnout, or feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of everyday life. A key focus of my practice is working with individuals managing career stress, work-life balance challenges, and the pressure of juggling career, family, and personal responsibilities. This includes Black women, young adults, mothers, and those in communities of color who are often carrying so much for so many, yet feel disconnected from themselves. Many of the clients I work with are dealing with anxiety, depression, or a general sense of being stuck, exhausted, or lost. They’re ready to pause, reflect, and ask: Who am I right now, and who do I want to become? They come to therapy wanting to reconnect with themselves, feel more grounded, and create space to breathe and grow. I also support clients exploring cultural identity, generational trauma, and the emotional weight that can come from unspoken expectations. My approach blends holistic therapy and culturally responsive care, helping clients find healing in a way that feels true to their lived experiences. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure of your next step, I’m here to support you as you reconnect with your values, your voice, and your vision for the life you want to lead.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use CBT because it helps clients understand the link between their thoughts, feelings, and actions—and how shifting one can change the others. Together, we identify unhelpful thought patterns, explore where they come from, and practice new ways of thinking that are more balanced and compassionate. I also focus on behavior—helping clients take small, manageable steps to break cycles of avoidance or self-doubt. Homework and real-life practice are key, so clients can apply tools outside of sessions. CBT is structured, but I keep it flexible and collaborative. I tailor it to each person’s pace and goals, so the work feels relevant, empowering, and doable.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Culturally sensitive therapy is all about creating a space where clients feel seen and respected in their full identity. I approach each person with openness and curiosity, knowing that culture, race, family, and community shape how we see the world—and how we experience mental health. Rather than assuming, I ask. I invite clients to share what matters to them and how their background impacts their values, stressors, and healing. Whether it's navigating intergenerational dynamics, dealing with discrimination, or just feeling out of place, I make space for those conversations. I also recognize that what looks like anxiety or depression is sometimes a response to real, ongoing pressures. So, I don't just focus on symptoms—I look at the bigger picture. At the core, it’s about meeting people where they are and making sure they don’t have to leave parts of themselves outside the therapy room.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use DBT to help clients build skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and staying grounded during tough moments. It’s especially helpful for people who feel overwhelmed by their feelings or stuck in patterns that cause distress. With DBT, I focus on four key areas: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. I teach practical, real-world tools—like how to ride out a wave of anxiety without reacting impulsively, or how to set boundaries without guilt. I always keep DBT client-centered. It’s not about “fixing” someone—it’s about helping them better understand themselves, feel more in control, and create a life that feels worth living.