LCSW, 12 years of experience
I'm a board-licensed therapist with extensive experience working with teens and adults. I believe that therapy is characterized by safety, trust, respect, and an emphasis on education and self-discovery. I have had the pleasure of conducting therapy with people of various ages and backgrounds. I have served in various clinical settings (e.g., inpatient psychiatric, outpatient counseling, addictions, etc.). My specializations include working with those who have experienced life-altering anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, substance use, and chronic stress.
During our first session, I conduct an intake meeting with you, gathering a wealth of information about you. Also, we get to know each other and build a respectful, supportive relationship as I work to build your trust in me.
My clients often comment about my compassion and ability to help them feel seen and heard. My approach is collaborative; you and I are a team, and I provide suggestions or guidance without being forceful or judgmental.
Drawing from 10+ years of clinical experience, I use a solution-focused approach to teach you skills to overcome worry, depression, anger, stress, guilt, low self-esteem, sleep issues, relationship struggles, and parenting challenges. My clients and I work on improving their wellness and their lives by exploring helpful solutions, perspectives, and habits.
Thoughts, feelings, and actions are explored with an understanding that trauma may be affecting how you behave. The goal is to build coping skills without re-traumatizing the individual.
If perception is reality, then your thoughts and beliefs will steer your emotions and behaviors, for better or for worse. We examine negative thinking and build better thinking habits.
I teach coping skills that can include grounding and relaxation techniques, including breathing exercises, meditation, muscle relaxation, etc.
We develop a vision for who you want to be and how you want your life to look, and I collaborate with client on how to take steps toward those outcomes.