Licensed to practice in Michigan and accepts 9 insurances. Specializes in Addiction, Anxiety, Life Transitions and 10 more.
(she/her)
New to Grow
I believe everybody has strengths and talents as well as a place to fit in among this world as well as a purpose. However, at times we all need help to find our strength as life challenges get in the way and we get stuck. “What is some wisdom you have gained through your experiences?” is a question I will ask you when you choose to work with me. We will explore this question together, building on your experiences, and you will learn to identify ways to use this wisdom and strength in the future. I have extensive experience with substance use and with adolescents. I am also a former psychology teacher and academic counselor. I have a passion for working with teens and adults dealing with issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, life changes, relationship concerns, LGBTQ issues, ADHD, and grief as well as substance abuse and families dealing with a loved one with substance abuse issues. I take a CBT, person centered, and a whole person approach meaning we look at your support system, environment, and daily routines as part of the puzzle. I create a safe space for you to open up and address things that may be hard for you to face on your own. Together we can make a plan to create and follow through on changes that will increase your strength and resilience, creating a better path forward
During the first session I will get to know you in addition to what brings you to therapy. This includes basic family background, who are the people in your life such as friends/family/partner/children, activities you enjoy, strengths and challenges, work/education, medical history, and anything else you feel is necessary.
I assure clients that this is a safe space to talk and I will ask questions as necessary, especially at first. I like to let the client talk about what is on the the top of their mind each week and meet them where they are at. Right away I will assess coping techniques and challenge clients to employ at least one new coping technique each week. At the end of each session I will ask clients to state a goal before next session; this can be anything that makes them feel satisfied such as getting a project done or meeting a friend. I will ask challenging questions as time goes on to dig deeper into situations or look at thought processes differently where and when necessary. I will assess and encourage clients to process through any difficult or otherwise traumatic situations as needed and look for strengths gained. I talked a lot about journaling, many ways to journal, and why it can be very helpful. I also talk a lot about lifestyle, such as exercise and other activities that can help move stress and negative emotions out of the body. At times I will have clients do worksheets pertaining to their situation as another way to explore thought processes. At times we will do deep breathing, muscle relaxation, or stretching in sessions if the client is comfortable. I enjoy hearing people's stories and helping them thorough difficult situations and watching them grow and change! I would also like to share that I am a mother of 3 young adults that are just starting their lives beyond high school. I have twin girls and a son; also I have 2 young adult stepsons. My current family blended when our kids were in elementary school and since I have been through my own challenges with my family, this better helps me to understand and help other families though these challenging times. I am also an artist, a baker, have 4 cats, love the outdoors and to exercise and would like to travel much more than I do. I have a strong interest in nutrition as well.
I enjoy working with teens 15 and up as well as adults who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, career issues or exploration, relationships, grief and loss, self esteem and body image, struggles with weight loss or emotional eating, chronic illness, as well as gender identity and other LGBTQ related issues. I also have an extensive background in substance use and working with family members struggling with a love one who suffers from addiction.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I've been using CBT in my practice for the past 14 years. It's helped dozens of clients challenge recurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We'll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact with one another. We'll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a more relaxed and less stressful life.