I believe that every person is a light in this world, and in order to heal from pain and suffering we must discover our inner strength, inherent worth, and greater purpose. Everyone is subject to the same universal challenges in life. Some of these include meeting our needs in a competitive society, discovering who we are, understanding the meaning of our lives, and coping with change. When stress becomes overwhelming, and when life becomes a struggle, this is the time to reach out for help. My approach to helping clients is very much influenced by humanistic psychology. Understanding the nature and dynamics of suffering is important, but I believe my most important task as a therapist is to help clients learn strategies for regaining wellness and fulfilling their potential. In my role as a therapist I incorporate counseling techniques that are based on cognitive-behavioral theory, polyvagal theory, psychodynamic therapy, and dialectical theory. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients in different roles. Before working in private practice, I worked as an outpatient therapist for a community mental health clinic during the COVID-19 Pandemic, as a college counselor. While pursuing my graduate degree, I worked in the child welfare field for abuse/neglect courts. Prior to graduate school, I worked as a tobacco cessation specialist in the public health field, where I facilitated support groups for clients with nicotine addiction. My journey into the helping professions started in 2005 when I began working as a certified nursing assistant and caregiver for clients with developmental disabilities and the elderly. For many years, I have been motivated to help and heal others. Thank you for reading about my personal counseling philosophy. I am looking forward to working with you!