New to Grow
I began my career as a foster care social worker, working with families and children affected by multiple types of complex trauma. I found that although my role allowed me to provide practical and emotional support, real clinical change was elusive. I began working as a therapist as a part-time career path until feeling called to pursue it fully. I feel that I benefit from a career of working with diverse populations (foster youth, adoption, sexual abuse victims, veterans, geriatrics, etc.) as well as my own personal experience attending therapy as a young adult. I am also the spouse of a combat veteran and understand the complexities of this role.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Our first session usually begins with a life narrative, depending on your presenting concerns. I want to know all about you and who made you the way you are. I want to know the good, bad, and indifferent and the messages from your past that are informing your present. I assign homework and appreciate clients who make assignments a priority. But there is grace for those whose lives are just crazy; usually, we will then do homework in session.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My therapeutic approach and utilization of evidence-based interventions are only as valuable as my ability to truly listen. I think the therapy space is flooded with individuals with exceptional credentials, but who are unable to listen with an empathetic ear. I never assume to know your suffering, but will sit with you in it and find our way out together.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My ideal clients are women navigating life in early adulthood, singleness, marriage, matrescence, and beyond. There are so many phases of life unique to a woman, with her identity and needs changing in each transition. I appreciate those who enjoy reading, reflecting, and putting the insights from our sessions into practice.
Psychodynamic
I inquire into past experiences and relationships to create understanding on how they've influenced the present. All early experiences are significant in their imprint on us, whether positive or negative, and often by speaking about them openly, writing them down, and processing, I can assist clients in realizing why they do what they do & may help them manage to change and do differently.
Christian Counseling
I offer strictly clinical tracks (no spiritual belief system needed), but for those seeking healing from spiritual trauma, seeking spiritual clarity, or wish to incorporate spiritual tools in their process, I personally am able to provide insight from a Christian lense.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In sessions, often what leads to anxious or depressive behaviors are anxious/depressive thoughts & assumptions. By utilizing CBT, I can assist the client in identifying what thoughts lead to what emotions, and from there identify maladaptive behaviors. We can then work together to break that cycle to stop it from repeating.