“I view therapy as a partnership; as a therapist, I am the expert in the therapy part and as the client, you are the expert in everything you.”
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
After an AmeriCorps service year, I made the decision to pursue a master’s in social work. I wanted to continue to be of service to those struggling with mental health concerns, life transitions, or making goals a reality. My previous work has included providing therapy and support to teens, inmates, homeless men/women/children, survivors of domestic violence, and LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. I have also worked in different settings as well as with diverse clients from all over the world.
What should someone know about working with you?
I view therapy as a partnership; as a therapist, I am the expert in the therapy part and as the client, you are the expert in everything you. You know your thoughts, your struggles, and your strengths. I continue to dedicate myself to learning new tools to help my clients grow and change. I will give you homework to help you reach your goals and help you learn new tools to build the life you want.
What do you do to continue learning and building competencies as a provider?
Learning and growth are things that I am very passionate about. Currently, I am enrolled in a doctoral program to enhance my skills in working with integrated care in order to better support people. I also complete continuing education courses through a number of different training programs to keep abreast of different techniques and modalities that will best support client growth. Two areas that I am currently training in include postpartum mood disorders and the use of psychedelics to help with mental health disorders. Twice a month or as needed, I participate in individual consultation to enhance my skills and better support clients. I also participate in a group consultation to support BIPOC clients.
How do your core values shape your approach to therapy?
I love and value the therapeutic process and the work I do. I am a human trying to help other humans. I want to be at the table with you and to listen deeply and with profound empathy. Being someone with a therapist myself is fundamental to who I am in the therapeutic room. Not only do I bring the credentials and training to the therapeutic process but my own struggle with mental health helps me to understand and hear my clients and their needs and desires to better themselves.
What are you most excited about within the evolving mental health landscape?
Being a therapist has given me the opportunity to work with clients in different settings and environments. Transitioning to a fully virtual practice was challenging but I enjoy it a lot. The exciting part about telehealth is that it offers a glimpse into your world and I can give you a glimpse into mine. I believe that telehealth actually provides a more intimate setting than in-person therapy.
“Not only do I bring the credentials and training to the therapeutic process but my own struggle with mental health helps me to understand and hear my clients and their needs and desires to better themselves.”