Early on in my career, I worked as a field case manager, visiting clients in their homes or treatment programs and learning about their lives, their challenges, and their goals. Some of the people I had the pleasure of working with had been hospitalized on behavioral health units multiple times. I was inspired by their motivation and tenacity while experiencing stigma and systematic oppression. I felt the work we accomplished together was collaborative and we considered each other’s opinions. I offered gentled nudges when I saw motivation or confidence shifting and fostered a safe place for my clients to share their fears and concerns about taking steps toward their goals. I was inspired every day and learned an insurmountable amount about trauma, resilience, and the importance of having an open mind.

A major part of my therapeutic approach is collaboration. I function from a strengths-based and trauma-informed model and engage with clients in a way that fosters a safe environment for storytelling, goal planning, and processing experiences. Like most therapists, there is some paperwork involved when meeting a new client but I have found that the best way to obtain information is through conversation and active listening. During the first session, I invite an open narrative within comfort levels and I also discuss expectations of therapy and what I am able to offer.

My core values are at the heart of my practice and I try hard to display them in my daily life and the work that I do. Having a safe place filled with compassion, empathy, and honesty is where I thrive the most. I have found that the people I work with experience personal growth when they make a connection to someone they can trust and feel free of judgment.