My studies began in the education field with the hopes of becoming an elementary school teacher. During this time, I was drawn to the children who needed more emotional support and my passion became helping those with emotional and behavioral issues that often impacted their learning. When I switched my major from education to social work, I knew I had made the right decision. During my early years as a social worker, I worked as a substance abuse counselor and listened to adults talk about their struggles in school and how they were drawn to alcohol and drugs to escape their challenges. My goal is to create a safe place where children can develop the emotional intelligence needed to explore, discover, and embrace their authentic selves.

My experience is focused on working with children ages 3-22. I enjoy working with all children but the concentration of my treatment modalities targets depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, ADHD, autism, and trauma. If a client is under 18, I speak with their parents first. I explore and discuss with the parent their concerns, expectations, and hopes for treatment. I then discuss my credentials, experience, and what to expect when working with me.

Currently, my interests and continuing education are focused on improving skills and techniques to help with behavioral issues associated with trauma. I have done course work on DBT and am currently in the process of completing my DBT certification.