LMHC, 7 years of experience
New to Grow
A warm, compassionate, genuine therapist, who believes to live a full life one must be balanced physically, mentally, and emotionally. I am very mindful of how culture, identify, and lived experiences shape how we navigate the world. I also genuinely believe in meeting each client where they are, and creating a space where they feel safe, respected, and empowered to show up just as they are. So, I approach the therapeutic relationship with the understanding that my clients are the experts in their lives, and I am the explorer helping them change course in their journey. As a therapist in Private Practice for over 7 years, I have learnt that therapy works best when it feels real and human — when clients can feel that I am not just listening, but genuinely present with them.
In our first session, we will spend time getting to know each other, talking about what brought you here, and answer any questions you have. I will also take some time to review your intake packet/assessments, to better understand your background. I know paperwork is not the most fun part, so I try to keep it as quick and easy as possible. Ultimately, my goal is to create a safe, warm, and collaborative space for you to share your therapy goals.
To support the needs of my clients, I use collaborative and empowering counseling techniques to promote self-awareness and healing. Techniques I use are rooted in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected), MI (Motivational Interviewing) and SBT (Strength-Based Therapy); to name a few. One size does not fit all, so my eccentric approach allows my clients to craft a plan that supports their individual needs/wants.
My ideal clients are individuals that struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I also specialize in helping individuals find their passion and feel more purposeful. Are you confused? Overwhelmed? or Anxious? Do you feel responsible for everyone else's happiness? Maybe you are simply ready for change. If you can relate, all the above and then some, are areas I can help you navigate through. Just that you are doing some research on therapy, is a positive first step!
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) among many others, is one of my favorite therapeutic tools! I use CBT to help my clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. We work on identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and find more balanced ways of looking at situations. I also bring in practical tools like thought records, behavioral activation, or exposure, depending on what my client needs.
In addition to CBT, I also use a strength-based approach in my work with clients. I believe every client brings something valuable to the therapeutic relationship. Through this model, I help my clients recognize their resilience and internal resources. Instead of focusing only on problems or deficits, I highlight how their strengths have helped them cope or survive in the past. It helps them build confidence and a sense of hope; especially when they are feeling stuck or discouraged.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is also another fav. I use it to help clients explore their own reasons for change in a nonjudgmental, supportive way. I focus on listening with empathy, asking open-ended questions, and reflecting their own thoughts, so they can hear their motivations and values more clearly. While MI can be especially useful for struggling with substance use, I have also found it helpful for clients new to therapy or stuck in unhealthy patterns. This approach helps build trust and keep my client in the driver’s seat of their own progress.