Hello! I am so glad you came across my profile; and that you are considering taking this very important step towards changing your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker, based in the Raleigh Durham area of North Carolina. I am licensed in North Carolina, Connecticut, Florida, and Texas. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and my graduate degree from the University of Georgia. I have spent the majority of my career in healthcare settings and working with adults who are experiencing challenges with mental health. I help clients with long-term health conditions find effective coping skills as well as meaning and acceptance in their diagnosis. I have also worked with children who have a loved one facing a life-altering medical diagnosis. My experience is not limited to working with individuals who are facing a medical diagnosis, as I also have worked extensively with clients facing depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, self-esteem issues, and end-of-life challenges. I view therapy as a collaboration, as you are the expert of your own life; we will work jointly to create a treatment that is both realistic and meaningful so that you can live a full and value-driven life! I have a certificate to provide tobacco cessation counseling for individuals looking to live a smoke-free lifestyle.
In our first session together we will take time to get to know one another. Therapy is a very personal decision, so it is important that we both feel that the therapeutic relationship is a good fit. This might feel a little like an interview, but don't worry there is no right or wrong way to do this; I hope this will be the start of a trusting therapeutic relationship. We will also discuss what you are hopeful to take from therapy, share ways that you feel I can support you, and begin discussions about goals and a plan of care throughout this experience.
Having extensive experience working with adults of all demographics facing either health or personal life challenges, I believe my strengths are around joining the client in a non-judgmental and empathetic way. I believe that many people have the tools and strengths to face life challenges but need help along the way. I I have a true expertise in working with clients to figure those strengths out in order to live a healthy and more fulfilling life.
I love working with clients who are eager and ready to make a change in their lives. It is not uncommon that life throws us a curve ball and we need a consistent and supportive person on our side. I enjoy being there to see my clients start the process and watch them grow over time!
As a therapist, I work jointly with my clients to identify the positive attributes brought to the table in order to deal with life challenges and adversity to achieve a positive outcome and effective plan for coping.
As a medical oncology social worker much of my career has been spent facilitating support groups. I have experience with various cancer support groups including: disease specific, survivorship, caregiver, support for children, grief and loss and tobacco cessation support groups.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective therapeutic approach for many issues. I provide psychoeducation around how what you think can impact how you feel and behave. I work with clients to make the connection between the mind and body; I assist in determining how they can change unhelpful thinking patterns to feel better.
With this highly impactful treatment method, I work alongside clients to determine and externalize the problem at hand. I then provide support to clients as they co-construct goals and strategies to resolve the issue and find meaning in your experience.
With this specialized treatment modality, I provide education around mindfulness practices and introduce tools that can be used to support clients in being present in the here and now as well as focusing on mind body practices that help reduce stress.