My Approach to Helping
Welcome! I’m so glad you are reaching out! Finding a therapist who is able to listen and understand your particular needs is key. When I meet with you for the first time, I want to learn who you are as a person. In addition to diagnosis and issues of concern, I want to know your life story. Are there patterns that recur in your life? What are your strengths? What matters to you? Once I have a good understanding, we can decide jointly what approach is likely to help you most.
When you come for counseling, you want to start to feel better right away. By incorporating evidence-based coping skills from the first session, I help folks get some immediate stress relief. At the same time, we will also address any underlying issues to achieve more long-term gains.
More Info About My Practice
I bring 24 years of experience. I vary my approach based on the needs of the individual, but some of the approaches I use include psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, trauma theory, developmental, and client-centered. Most important to me is to treat folks in a way that is supportive and skilled, providing a safe emotional space for you to address hard issues.
I love watching people grow and change, and consider it a privilege to be part of that.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
I have special expertise in dealing with TraumaPTSD, Womens Issues and Substance Abuse Recovery. I am good at helping folks who have a complex diagnosis or may have been misdiagnosed previously. That said, I am used to working with a wide array of different diagnoses and issues, and enjoy the variety.
What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist
I always wanted to work in this field, since I felt that mental health issues are so often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. I have been lucky enough to have worked with a variety of different clients in a variety of different settings. The true joy to me has been watching people grow and change over time, to become more truly themselves and more comfortable in their own skin. I have such respect for the courage and resilience of the folks I have worked with over the years.
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
Don't be discouraged. Not every therapist is right for every person. Finding a good fit is key. Trust your gut on this one. I have a lot of experience working with people who have had one or more negative experiences with therapy in the past, and I can honestly say that in most cases I am able to help them have a better outcome. It is important to me as a therapist to make sure the process of therapy itself is as supportive as it can be. Yes, we want to challenge assumptions; but at the same time I always want to respect your own comfort level.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.