(she/her)
New to Grow
If you’re unsure whether therapy is right for you—or you’ve tried it before and it didn’t quite help—you’re not alone. I’m a licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, identity questions, and life transitions. I support people in making sense of their experiences, building self-awareness, and responding to challenges in more intentional and effective ways. My approach is direct and supportive, helping you feel heard while also encouraging new perspectives.
In our first session, we’ll focus on what brought you to therapy, what you’ve already tried, and how you make sense of what’s going on. This helps us begin to understand your experience and what you need moving forward. I’ll also ask about key areas of your life—such as your background, relationships, and current stressors—to get a fuller picture. I do ask a number of questions, and that’s intentional. The goal is to understand your situation so we can decide how to move forward together. You are always in control of what you choose to share.
My approach is relational, direct, and nonjudgmental. I focus on building strong rapport while also being honest and straightforward, creating a space where you feel supported while being encouraged to think differently. I balance insight with practical strategies, using approaches like CBT to help you recognize patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I also work to separate you from the problems you’re facing so they feel more manageable. I tailor my approach based on where you are—whether you’re exploring change or ready to take action—so our work feels relevant and useful. I bring experience working with adolescents, families, and individuals navigating high levels of stress, which helps me adapt to different needs and situations.
I work best with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, identity questions, or life transitions, as well as those managing high levels of stress related to work, caregiving, or daily responsibilities. Many adolescents I work with struggle with day-to-day stressors related to school, peer relationships, self-esteem, and family dynamics. They may feel overwhelmed, withdrawn, or unsure how to handle what they’re facing. While parents may initiate therapy, it’s most effective when adolescents are open to engaging. Many adults feel overwhelmed, unsure of themselves, or stuck in unhelpful patterns—often juggling multiple stressors at once. They may be looking for greater clarity, emotional balance, and practical ways to respond more effectively to the challenges they’re facing.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I use CBT to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors—especially when they feel stuck or are experiencing self-doubt. We work together to identify patterns in thinking and gently question whether those thoughts are helpful or accurate. The goal isn’t to force positive thinking, but to develop more balanced and realistic perspectives that can shift how clients feel and respond. I also emphasize that this process takes time, and CBT is a starting point for building awareness and making meaningful, sustainable changes.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
take a culturally responsive approach to therapy, recognizing that our experiences are shaped not only by who we are as individuals, but also by our cultural backgrounds and the environments we live in. Sometimes therapy can focus too narrowly on the individual, so I work with clients to also consider the broader context—how culture, family, community, and systemic factors influence how challenges are experienced and understood. Together, we explore what feels most relevant for each client and identify steps forward that align with their values, experiences, and goals.
Motivational Interviewing
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) as a way to engage clients in the change process. I believe that change doesn’t come from me as the therapist—it comes from you. My role is to help create space for you to explore what you want to be different and what matters most to you. Together, we look at areas where you may feel stuck or unsure, and I use guided conversation to help bring out your own insights and motivations. You are the expert in your life, and I support you in identifying and moving toward meaningful change in a way that feels right for you.
Trauma Informed Care
I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, recognizing that trauma is common and can impact how people experience therapy. Because of this, I focus on creating a space where clients feel safe, heard, and understood. I work collaboratively with clients—alongside them rather than “on” them—and prioritize building trust and transparency in the process. My goal is to ensure clients feel supported, have access to helpful resources, and can move at a pace that feels comfortable and respectful of their experiences.
Psychoeducation
I see psychoeducation as an important starting point in therapy. Change often begins with self-awareness, and there can be a sense of relief and validation in being able to name what you’re experiencing. From there, we look at how these patterns show up in your day-to-day life—how they influence your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This process helps build understanding and creates a foundation for making meaningful, lasting changes.