New to Grow
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience providing trauma-informed therapy. My work primarily focuses on helping clients understand and navigate the effects of trauma, chronic stress, and overwhelming life experiences. As a military spouse, I have firsthand insight into the impact of prolonged uncertainty, transitions, and cumulative stress, which informs my compassionate and grounded approach to care. I draw from evidence-based, trauma-focused approaches to support clients in building emotional regulation, increasing self-awareness, and restoring a sense of safety and stability. Many of the clients I work with experience anxiety, relationship difficulties, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or patterns shaped by past trauma. Therapy is collaborative and paced intentionally, allowing clients to engage in the process without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Earlier in my career, I worked extensively with children and adolescents. Today, I primarily support adults and couples while continuing to work with teen clients. This background allows me to consider how early experiences, attachment patterns, and relational dynamics can influence present-day functioning and relationships. I am committed to creating a supportive and respectful therapeutic space where clients can explore their experiences, develop practical coping skills, and move toward healing at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During the first therapy session, we will focus on understanding what brings you to therapy and what you hope to gain from the process. We will review your background, current concerns, and any past experiences that may be impacting you now, moving at a pace that feels comfortable and respectful. This initial session is also about building rapport and creating a space where you feel heard and supported. There is no pressure to share more than you are ready to. We will take time to discuss your goals, answer any questions you have, and determine an approach to therapy that aligns with your needs and priorities. The first session helps set a clear, collaborative foundation for our work together.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My approach to therapy is collaborative, respectful, and grounded in authenticity. I prioritize meeting clients where they are and honoring each person’s pace, experiences, and goals. Creating a space that feels safe and supportive is central to my work, allowing clients to speak openly, reflect, and engage in the therapeutic process without pressure. I show up genuinely in session and focus on building strong, trusting therapeutic relationships. When appropriate, I may use light humor to help ease tension and support connection. My work is informed by evidence-based approaches that are well supported by research and tailored to each client’s needs. Together, we work toward increased insight, emotional stability, and meaningful progress in a way that feels steady and sustainable.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I work best with individuals who are reflective, resilient, and ready to better understand patterns that may be affecting their emotions, relationships, or daily life. Many clients bring a strong capacity for coping and insight, even when certain experiences continue to feel difficult or unresolved. I also support couples who want to strengthen their relationship by improving communication, navigating conflict more thoughtfully, or reconnecting after periods of stress or distance. My ideal clients value collaboration, self-awareness, and a steady, intentional approach to growth and change.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I am trained in CBT through the Beck Institute. CBT is the foundation of my clinical work and focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors to support lasting change.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I use CPT to support clients with PTSD and complex trauma. CPT is a structured, evidence-based approach that includes meaningful between-session practice to help clients actively process trauma, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and build lasting change. It is considered a gold-standard treatment for trauma.
EMDR
I use EMDR to address trauma, anxiety, and grief. EMDR is very different from traditional talk therapy - you do not need to go into extensive detail about painful experiences. Instead, EMDR uses guided bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) to help the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose emotional intensity. EMDR typically involves less between-session homework while remaining highly effective and is also considered a gold-standard trauma treatment.
Couples Counseling
I work with couples using evidence-based approaches, including the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The Gottman Method focuses on practical tools for communication, conflict management, and rebuilding trust, while EFT helps couples understand emotional patterns and strengthen their bond. I tailor the approach based on what each couple needs most.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
DBT is an evidence-based approach that helps people better understand and manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and cope with stress in healthier ways. DBT focuses on building practical skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and effective communication, while also balancing acceptance and meaningful change.