New to Grow
As a licensed clinician, I have over 30 years experience working with individuals experiencing mental illness in many different forms. I provide a compassionate, collaborative approach designed to help you understand your experiences, build coping skills, and create meaningful change. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore what matters most to you and move toward recovery and well-being.
In our first session, the priority is creating a space where you feel heard, safe, and comfortable. We’ll start by exploring what brought you to therapy and what you’re hoping to change or achieve. Think of it as a low-pressure conversation where we "get the lay of the land"—I’ll ask some questions to understand your history and current challenges, and you’ll get a feel for my style and how I work. By the end of the hour, we’ll touch on some initial goals and decide on a path forward that feels right for you.
As a therapist I strive for my clients to feel safe and comfortable when they are sharing past experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I am fascinated by the human experience and eager to discover the unique world of each individual, which helps clients feel safe enough to open up. I have also found using humor can help foster trust and empathy. While I offer deep warmth and unconditional regard, I also "hold a client's feet to the fire" by demanding accountability and pushing for real change.
With over 30 years experience working with individuals experiencing mental health issues, I have found that I work best with those people seeking active change through multiple therapy modalities. My expertise is focused on helping individuals navigate major life transitions, such as divorce or career changes, childhood trauma, and LGBTQ+ individuals facing systemic discrimination, violence, or related substance abuse and suicidal ideation.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is a useful and effective tool I use in therapy to help clients identify and challenge those negative thought patterns and the maladaptive resulting behaviors. Clients develop practical coping skills and learn emotional regulation techniques to help manage anxiety, depression and stress that may develop as a result.