LCSW, 15 years of experience
Life is tough, and starting therapy is a big step- I'm glad you're here! I'm passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges. I view therapy as a safe, nonjudgmental space for exploring both challenges and successes. I have been independently licensed as a clinical social worker since 2013 and obtained my doctorate in social work in 2023. I have a particular interest and expertise in Serious Mental Illness (SMI), those suffering with mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. I’m also passionate about supporting caregivers of individuals with SMI, who often carry unique emotional and practical challenges. My approach is warm, empathic, and collaborative—I aim to create a space where you feel truly heard and supported.
During the first session, I'll be wanting to get to know you and learning about your goals for treatment. You may not fully know, and that's OK! More often than not, the "reason" you're seeking therapy is complex and multi-faceted.
I bring warmth, empathy, and over a decade of clinical experience to every session. My approach is dialectical, meaning we’ll balance acceptance with change—acknowledging where you are while also developing practical tools to move forward. I take a collaborative stance, offering guidance and skills you can apply in daily life to help you feel more in control and aligned with your goals.
I work best with individuals who are struggling with their mental health and are seeking a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for healing. Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, or the effects of serious mental illness—or supporting a loved one who is—I’ll meet you where you are. Clients who appreciate a coaching style, paired with actionable skills and genuine empathy, often find our work together especially beneficial.
DBT is a popular, skill-based treatment modality used to treat a variety of mood disorders, and perhaps most specifically, geared towards those with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder). I have used this method on adult inpatient units and as a guide for leading adolescent groups. DBT's core components include Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness
Motivational Interviewing is an approach to therapy more akin to coaching, and less concerned with advice-giving. We'll explore your motivations by listening, reflecting back, validating, and assessing readiness for change or action.
I was trained in CAMS during the opening of an Empath Unit (Emergency Psychiatric Treatment and Healing) where 60% of individuals presenting had either attempted or thought about attempting suicide. This approach takes a judgment-free and collaborative stance, with the clinician and client assessing the situation together each session. CAMS works well with DBT and other behavior modification approaches.