LCSW, 12 years of experience
Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with more than a decade of experience helping people navigate substance use and mental health issues. I have worked with people who use drugs and their family members in numerous settings and have experience conducting individual and group therapy. I obtained my master's degree from Temple University and am passionate about supporting those with substance use challenges and their loved ones.
In our first session, we will review any paperwork you have filled out prior to our appointment. We will also discuss what led you to seek therapy and what kind of support you're hoping to receive.
As a clinician, I am very straightforward and prioritize working along side my clients to help them in reaching their goals. I have worked for over a decade with people who use drugs and their families to assist in developing healthy coping skills and boundaries that work for all involved.
Often, substance use disorders are heavily stigmatized and this is a major barrier to seeking support. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where people feel free to discuss whatever challenges are impacting their lives. I often work with individuals facing substance use disorders and those in their immediate families. Individuals often feel a loss of control and an inability to regulate emotions in a constructive way given their current challenges.
I have significant experience using motivational interviewing (MI) to support clients in exploring and resolving ambivalence around change. In practice, I take a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach, helping you identify your goals and the reasons behind them. I’ll ask open-ended questions, reflect on what you share, and help you strengthen your motivation to make changes that feel right for you—at your own pace.
I have extensive experience using trauma-informed care to support clients navigating substance use, anxiety, and life transitions. I approach therapy with an understanding that past experiences can deeply affect current behaviors and emotions. In practice, this means creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and respected. I focus on helping you build coping strategies, strengthen emotional regulation, and explore patterns without judgment or pressure.
I have many years of experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In practice, I work with you to identify unhelpful patterns, challenge negative thoughts, and develop healthier coping strategies. My goal is to give you practical tools that you can use in everyday life to feel more in control and improve your overall well-being.
I have experience using mindfulness to help clients build distress tolerance and navigate challenging emotions. In sessions, I can support you in developing awareness of your thoughts and feelings without judgment, helping you stay grounded even when things feel overwhelming. We’ll work on practical techniques like deep breathing and grounding exercises to help you respond to stress in a purposeful way.