LMHC, 6 years of experience
New to Grow
I became a therapist because I know firsthand that treatment works. I also know what it feels like to carry crippling anxiety, to feel weighed down by trauma we don’t fully understand, to blame ourselves for feeling depressed, and to wonder if we’ll ever find a way forward. Those struggles have shaped me, and they’ve given me a deep passion for helping others find hope, healing, and strength in their own stories. I believe that to truly understand ourselves in the present, we need to explore the experiences that shaped us and how they continue to influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In therapy, my goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself openly, process what you’ve been through, and begin to see yourself with greater clarity and compassion. The clients who thrive in my care are those who are ready to grow—willing to unravel the complexities of their past, strengthen their voice, and step into a deeper sense of pride in who they are becoming. If you’re feeling stuck but still holding on to even a spark of hope, therapy can help you nurture it into something brighter. You don’t have to walk this path alone—I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
In our first session, I take time for us to get to know each other and to answer any questions you may have about the process. I’ll also share a bit about how we’ll move through treatment together so you feel comfortable and informed. I like to begin sessions by asking how you’re feeling—this helps us practice using feeling words and sets the tone for our work. Checking in with emotions throughout the day is something I encourage, because it helps reduce avoidance and mental fatigue. We’ll also talk about your supports and your goals, making sure we’re aligned and focused on what matters most to you. From there, we’ll let the session unfold naturally—you’re in the driver’s seat, and I’m here to help guide the way. I like to close our sessions with affirmation cards, which add a light and meaningful touch. It’s always fun to see how often the card reflects the exact theme of our work together!
I believe that empathy is one of my greatest strengths. It allows me to connect with people on a deep and genuine level, to truly understand not just what they’re saying but also what they’re feeling. At times, having such high empathy can feel like both a blessing and a challenge, but over time I’ve learned how powerful it can be when balanced with healthy boundaries. That balance—empathy combined with boundaries—is something I see as a superpower, and it’s something we can uncover and strengthen together in therapy. When we work together, my focus is on really getting to know you. I want to understand your values, your beliefs, and the experiences that have shaped you, as well as the patterns or triggers that may leave you feeling stuck. I see therapy as a space where you don’t have to edit yourself—you can show up fully as you are, and we’ll work side by side to make sense of it all. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy, which offers practical tools to shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, with psychodynamic therapy, which helps us explore the past and how it continues to influence your present life. I believe that gaining insight into your story is essential—understanding not just what has happened, but how it has shaped your outlook, your relationships, and your sense of self. With that understanding, we can find the path forward that feels authentic, empowering, and truly aligned with who you are becoming. Most importantly, I see therapy as a partnership. The relationship we build is the foundation for change, and it’s within that connection that growth and healing really happen.
I work best with clients who are tuned in to their symptoms and ready to lean into a growth mindset. You don’t have to come into therapy knowing exactly what your goals are—that’s completely okay. We’ll figure it out together and create a plan that feels right for you. As we work, we’ll uncover parts of your authentic self and help you feel more comfortable with who you are. We’ll also look at the patterns that might be keeping you stuck, and explore new ways of seeing challenges so you can move forward with more clarity, confidence, and resilience. At the heart of all this is our relationship—the trust and connection we build in therapy is the foundation that makes real change possible.