“When adult clients visit my office, they are often having difficulty managing chronic stress and may simultaneously be navigating the effects of trauma.”
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. I also have experience with some psychodynamic evidence-based therapies and solution-focused brief therapy. My career has given me the opportunity to work in various settings in New York City, such as outpatient mental health clinics and school-based health centers collaborating with DOE staff. I have also worked in ambulatory medical clinics, helping patients diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, and asthma.
What should someone know about working with you?
When adult clients visit my office, they are often having difficulty managing chronic stress and may simultaneously be navigating the effects of trauma. In my work with children, I utilize behavior modification techniques, play therapy, games, and toys to help them learn how to manage frustration or other concerns as they arise.
What do you do to continue learning and building competencies as a provider?
Dedicated to ongoing professional growth, I continue to learn new ways to assist my clients. I enjoy attending summits, workshops, and webinars. I also like reading articles and books discussing new theories and skills that can help clients feel empowered in managing their stressors and symptoms.
How do your core values shape your approach to therapy?
I chose to go into the field of social work because I wanted to give back to my community. Living in New York City for more than 30 years, I’ve embraced the diversity of all communities, meeting and learning from the life experiences of wonderful people of various races, ethnic groups, religions, and sexual orientations. I was inspired by other social workers I met while attending school and college as they worked with children, adolescents, and adults from underserved populations. I am also a product of the diversity of the city as I’m part of a multicultural family. I believe that people are the experts in their life experiences and I serve as a guide to help them examine their choices to achieve their goals. Meeting the client where they are in their journey is essential; my clients’ needs determine my approach.
“In my work with children, I utilize behavior modification techniques, play therapy, games, and toys to help them learn how to manage frustration or other concerns as they arise.”