I grew up in Florida and graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. I began my career in a county jail mental health unit, where I became proficient in crisis intervention, assessments, and group therapy. While there, I not only logged needed clinical hours, but also studied for and passed the licensing exam for the State of Florida to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Since then, I have worked at an air force base, offering therapy to individuals and families, as well as a substance/mental health rehab program for the Veteran's Administration. I also volunteer with survivors of gun violence who are grieving and/or coping with trauma. I love being a therapist! It’s humbling to be a part of my clients’ lives as they heal, grow, and go after their goals.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
As a client, you will leave sessions with a new framework for understanding your challenges, including context provided by psychoeducation. You will also gain an appreciation for your natural abilities and personality traits that are unique to you. You will learn new interpersonal/communication skills, organizational and decision making skills and coping skills as well as learn to challenge negative self talk and assumptions and create a comprehensive plan for self care.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
As a social worker, I understand the person within the context of their environment and endeavor to address wellness in a holistic way. I view myself as a guide who journeys alongside my client and empowers them with new skills taught through cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and trauma informed approaches. I value creating a genuine and respectful therapeutic experience. My personal faith in God fuels my work. While I strive to be God’s instrument of healing, I do not discuss faith with clients unless they specifically request this. Oftentimes a person’s faith can be a valuable source of their own healing and I am happy to support them in this when applicable.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Do you have a loved one who...Is controlling/manipulative? Is clingy/demanding? Is sensitive to criticism? Talks about suicide/self-harm? Acts impulsively/becomes enraged? Criticizes/makes cruel jokes/puts you down? Love bombs you? Abuses substances? Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells? These relationships can feel chaotic, confusing, and at times, scary. They can drain your energy and challenge your view of yourself. It's common to develop anxiety or unhealthy ways of coping in response to these stressful relationships. I have extensive experience working with people like your loved one. I’d love to share my insights with you and empower you with knowledge and skills so that this challenge does not negatively affect other parts of your life.