I often introduce myself as one of the most awkward counselors people will meet, but only as a reminder that it’s okay to be human. Are you also neurospicy and maybe just need time to take off that mask? Let's do that. We can also develop tools needed to advocate against whichever systems of oppression you find yourself most affected and marginalized by. My clients often seek support for issues related to lifestyle design, behavior change, childhood trauma, identity + sexuality, gender-affirming care, attachment issues, relationships, and substance use/abuse. I apply trauma-focused, queer, feminist, and anti-oppressive lenses as I incorporate harm reduction principles into my practice. I am also sex, kink, polyamory, body, and LGBTQIA+ positive. I believe that everyone can heal, transform and thrive with the right amount of support, knowledge, and guidance to do so. I hold a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am a Licensed Professional Counselor, but I am very aware that you are far more of an expert on yourself than I ever will be. I've been helping addicts recover (in their own ways) my entire career. Clients have described my counseling style as transparent, challenging, authentic, and genuinely caring. I may curse a bit, and be pretty direct at times, but I'll always compassionately encourage your growth.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Ultimately, you should walk away from your first session feeling safe, heard, validated, and supported. Although counseling can be scary and painful, especially in the beginning, the hope is that you feel confident enough in our partnership that you feel empowered to take whatever steps are needed. I believe that everyone can heal, transform, and thrive with the right amount of support, knowledge, and guidance to do so. Developing self-compassion, patience, and understanding is critical for that journey. Together, we take two steps back to get a better view of where and how you arrived here - and then we figure out which ways work best for you to achieve your goals.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I believe that knowledge is power, and that power equips people to advocate for themselves - in and out of the therapeutic environment. You'll get information about the approaches I use, as well as situations you find yourself in or conditions you have. We explore systemic influences while developing compassionate accountability for individual choices. Trained in EMDR with a background in Internal Family Systems, I generally use a trauma-focused, eclectic, and client-centered approach. That approach may use some handouts, but art, videos, TikTok, memes, or even music can find a welcome place in therapy. We'll identify parts young and old, bringing balance to internal systems by applying compassion, curiosity, creativity, and courage, among other qualities.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Trauma doesn't have to be epic. It can be little things you didn't get that you needed, such as hugs or support. It can be big things that you received that you didn't need or want. It can be damaged relationships, especially with family or friends or people you thought should have been safe. It can start as early as birth, or be ongoing and recent. I work with clients to explore their life to discover patterns in relationships and internal messaging that they have carried throughout their life. I approach addiction through a harm-reduction, judgment-free lens cultivated through my experience as a survivor, friend, family member, and community member. Therapy helps us to make decisions that trade short-term comforts for long-term successes. It gets better, and together we recover.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
My clients are ages 14+, and tend to seek support for issues related to lifestyle design, behavior change, childhood trauma, identity + sexuality, gender affirming care, attachment issues, relationships, and/or substance use/abuse.