Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I want to make that first session as comfortable and welcoming as possible for you. Whether this is your first experience with counseling or you’ve worked with a therapist before, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions—uncertainty, hope, nervousness, or even relief. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can begin to explore your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. The first session is about getting to know each other and laying the groundwork for a potential therapeutic relationship. Think of it as a two-way conversation—just as you’re deciding whether I’m the right fit for you, I’ll also be learning more about your needs to ensure I can offer the type of support that will truly benefit you. We’ll start with a conversation about what brings you to therapy at this time and what you’re hoping to gain from the experience. You don’t need to have all the answers or know exactly where to start. I’ll guide the process gently, asking questions to help us begin understanding the concerns that are most important to you right now. We’ll also talk about your goals, your expectations for therapy, and any past experiences you’ve had with counseling. I’ll take time to explain how I work—what you can expect from me, the types of issues I specialize in, and how we might approach your specific needs. If at any point you have questions, concerns, or simply want to pause and reflect, you are always welcome to speak up. Your comfort is a priority. A key part of our first session is exploring whether we feel like a good fit for each other. Therapy is most effective when there’s a strong therapeutic alliance—meaning we both feel safe, connected, and able to work together openly. I’ll be honest about whether I believe I’m the best person to support you, and I encourage you to be just as honest with yourself about how the interaction feels. This is your space, and your ability to trust the process matters deeply. We’ll also review some of the more practical aspects of therapy—confidentiality, scheduling, communication, and any policies you should be aware of. I aim to be transparent and clear so that you can make a fully informed decision about whether to move forward. Most importantly, the first session is not about pressure or performance. You don’t need to come in with everything figured out or share anything you’re not ready to. This is a starting point—a chance to begin building conne

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

What often stands out most in my work is the way I connect with clients—not as an authority figure, but as a real person who genuinely cares about helping you feel heard, understood, and supported. I bring a warm, personable approach to therapy because I believe that healing happens best in an environment of trust, openness, and mutual respect. From the moment we begin working together, you'll notice that I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. I understand that each person is unique—with different experiences, needs, personalities, and goals—and I tailor our work accordingly. I’m flexible and comfortable pivoting when needed. If something isn’t resonating or if life throws you an unexpected curveball, we’ll adapt. Your therapy experience should reflect your life—not force you to fit into a rigid structure that doesn’t meet you where you are. One of the core beliefs that guides my work is that you are the expert on your life. My role isn’t to give you all the answers, but to help you uncover the wisdom you already have within. Often, that means asking thoughtful questions, gently challenging unhelpful patterns, and offering a different perspective—one that helps you gain clarity and confidence in your decisions. I see therapy as a collaborative journey, where we work side by side to explore what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to shift so that you can move forward with purpose and peace. Clients have often told me that they appreciate how real and approachable I am. You won’t find a cold or clinical dynamic here. I show up fully, with compassion and authenticity, because I believe that genuine human connection is a powerful part of the healing process. At the same time, I’m not afraid to challenge you when it’s in service of your growth. With trust and rapport, I’ll encourage you to step into the hard conversations, face difficult truths, and stretch beyond your comfort zone—all in a way that feels safe and supported. I work across a range of concerns—from mood and anxiety disorders to trauma, psychosis, and substance use—and across all stages of life. No matter your story, I’m committed to helping you build the tools and insight needed to manage your symptoms, reconnect with your values, and get back to living the kind of life that feels fulfilling and manageable. Ultimately, what makes my approach unique is the combination of flexibility, honesty, and heart. I’m not here to “fix” you, but to walk alongside you as you rediscover your strengt

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

My ideal client is someone who is ready to do the real work of healing—even if they’re not entirely sure where to begin. They may come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or simply tired of carrying the weight of their emotions alone. What sets them apart is their willingness to lean into the process, knowing that growth often requires discomfort and honesty. This client values authenticity. They're open to exploring not only what’s happening in their life, but how their thoughts, behaviors, and past experiences may be influencing their present. They’re not expected to have all the answers—in fact, they may have more questions than clarity—but they’re willing to be honest with themselves and with me as we build a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust. They understand that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s the foundation of real change. Once rapport is established, they’re open to being challenged in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. They’re receptive to feedback and able to sit with uncomfortable truths, knowing that the goal isn’t to shame or criticize, but to foster growth, resilience, and self-awareness. This client is also open to learning and trying new strategies to manage symptoms, process emotions, and re-engage with life’s routines and responsibilities. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, or substance use, they are committed to reclaiming their mental health and building a more balanced, meaningful life. Ultimately, my ideal client sees therapy as a collaborative journey. They show up with courage, curiosity, and a desire to not only feel better—but to live better.

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