When I started college, I was a typical 17-year old. I struggled to understand who I was or where I was going. I considered medical school but I learned that I wanted to work in a helping profession, just not in a medical setting. Once I took my first course in psychotherapy, I realized that I had found a path that combined my interests and my strengths. I have always been an empathic listener and a source of support for those around me. I started my career working with adolescent women in foster care, where I learned about trauma, anxiety, and suffering, but most significantly I learned about resilience. I grew passionate about helping young individuals identify their strengths and their potential. In my own practice, I work with adolescents and young adults who are seeking the skills, confidence, and motivation to function more effectively each day. I use CBT and DBT to help clients recognize their own strengths and grow from their weaknesses for a better, more confident life.

Before I start meeting with a client, I conduct a brief consultation to understand their reasons for starting therapy, their current concerns, and how they hope to identify a fit with a therapist. I pride myself in being transparent with my clients; I explain the modalities of therapy that I practice, the process of setting goals, and the importance of the therapeutic fit and relationship between the client and therapist. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I also enjoy working with clients who are developing self-awareness and insight into their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

I value honesty, balance, and a strengths-based perspective. As a therapist, I offer a balance of validation and critical resistance to allow clients to learn how to accept the things they cannot change and change the things they can. I help clients recognize their own strengths to promote resilience and develop effective coping skills. I am honest and direct in a therapeutic manner, which allows clients to feel safe, comfortable, and ready to strive toward their goals.