“Watching clients get better and develop coping skills and resilience to live their best lives has always been the hallmark of my practice.”
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
Growing up, I always had a knack for listening to others. My friends always came to me to share because they knew I would listen and offer support. In college, I thought I was going to be a teacher but I took my first psychology course and my journey became clear. My clinical practice spans over 20 years. I have had the privilege of working in the foster care system, OPWDD group homes, outpatient clinics, and the NYS OMH. During my 17 years with OMH, I worked in two inpatient hospitals, a day treatment program, a community residence, and an outpatient behavioral health clinic. I have treated clients with significant trauma, depression, anxiety, and a wide array of mental health concerns. Watching clients get better and develop coping skills and resilience to live their best lives has always been the hallmark of my practice.
What should someone know about working with you?
During my intake interview, I do a bio-psycho-social assessment so that I can get a good picture of your needs and strengths. My treatment is focused on the functional domains of relationships, purpose, work/school, physical health, responsibilities, recreation, and self-care. I want you to realize that you are greater than your presenting symptoms. I remind you that you are not broken. I give you room to access your own wisdom. I honor that I don't know it all. I recognize that you are the expert in your life and I will work with you to make the hard stuff easier to sit with.
How do your own core values shape your approach to therapy?
I grew up in a culture where there is significant stigma around mental illness and seeking emotional support. I am dedicated to providing education that is focused on removing the stigma around mental health treatment. I am also committed to providing trauma-informed and culturally-sensitive treatment to every client I see.
“My treatment is focused on the functional domains of relationships, purpose, work/school, physical health, responsibilities, recreation, and self-care.”