New to Grow
I am an experienced therapist with years of expertise in helping individuals deal with addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I also assist clients with career development and re-entry challenges. My background in Correctional and Mental Health Services, along with my Ph.D. and credentials (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Master Addiction Counselor, and National Certified Counselor), enables me to provide reliable, knowledgeable support to individuals who are ready to work toward a brighter future.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
This session is designed to help you get to know each other. I will ask questions to understand why you are seeking therapy now, what you hope to achieve, and a bit about your life experiences. There is no pressure to share anything you are not ready to discuss. You also have the opportunity to interview me! Please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have about my experience, the therapy process, or anything else on your mind. A good therapeutic fit is essential, and you have every right to feel confident in your choice. Remember, you are in control of this process.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
With a Ph.D. and over twenty years of experience, I understand that effective therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. My approach is integrative, which means I utilize proven methods such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Multicultural Counseling to create a personalized plan tailored to your unique story. Whether you are dealing with addiction, overwhelming anxiety, or the challenges of starting anew, our focus will be on achieving tangible results. We will work on developing practical skills for emotional regulation, gaining clarity rather than chaos, and taking concrete steps toward your goals. My diverse background in correctional settings, mental health, and private practice equips me to help you navigate complexities and achieve lasting, meaningful change.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
For 25 years, I have walked alongside individuals navigating life's most difficult challenges, from addiction and anxiety to the profound transition of rebuilding a life after incarceration. My experience within Correctional and Mental Health Services has given me a unique perspective on resilience and recovery. As a Ph.D.-level therapist with certifications and licenses in MAC, NCC, CRC, and LCPC, I am committed to providing you with a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to develop the skills and insights necessary for meaningful, lasting change.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As a therapist, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to guide, educate, and empower my clients within a structured and evidence-based framework. My strength lies in understanding and conceptualizing their difficulties, helping them acquire tools to break cycles of unhelpful thinking and behavior. Ultimately, my goal is for my clients to become their own therapists.
Multicultural
As a therapist utilizing a Multicultural treatment approach, I embody the role of an objective expert while actively collaborating with clients. I prioritize cultural self-awareness and uphold a commitment to cultural humility, which involves continuous learning and personal growth. I engage with clients by asking insightful questions, listening attentively, and validating their cultural experiences. I adapt my theories and techniques to align with my clients' unique cultural contexts, recognizing cultural identity as a powerful strength rather than an obstacle. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of my therapy but also establishes a more ethical practice, one that honors the entirety of the person in front of me.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
As a therapist with several years of experience employing the Person-Centered Therapy approach, I need to create a humane, relational, and practical framework that alleviates the pressure of expertise and emphasizes the power of the therapeutic relationship. This approach provides my clients with profound benefits, including self-discovery, self-acceptance, and empowered growth, by offering them what they may have never experienced before: a genuinely safe and understanding space in which to express themselves authentically.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
In my role as a therapist, I find it deeply rewarding to share with my clients the transformative power of Mindfulness-Based Therapy. This gentle approach helps cultivate a sense of calm and equips individuals with practical tools to observe their thoughts and emotions without feeling overwhelmed. I emphasize that by learning to respond thoughtfully to life's challenges, they can navigate difficulties with a clearer perspective and a more compassionate heart. Mindfulness-Based Therapy offers a valuable opportunity to disrupt those automatic, reactive patterns that often lead to stress and anxiety. It encourages individuals to let go of anxious thoughts about the future and painful feelings from the past, paving the way for healing and emotional balance. This meaningful shift fosters self-compassion and nurtures a profound sense of inner peace. This approach enables clients to cultivate present-moment awareness without judgment, a crucial step in managing stress and alleviating anxiety. I take immense joy in witnessing their journeys as they enact positive changes in their lives, embracing each step with kindness and understanding toward themselves.