12 years of mental health experience across multiple jobs

When I was 9 years old, I was uprooted from the home I had known most of my life and brought to live with family friends after my last living parent passed away unexpectedly. I quickly became withdrawn, frequently missing school, and struggling not only academically but to fit in with my ‘new’ family. At a time where it would have been easy to give up and lose all hope, I didn’t. And I didn’t because of a woman who I am to this day forever grateful for. The school social worker connected with me, when I began to withdraw, she continued to make an effort to connect with me and let me know she was there even if I was not ready. Day after day, week after week, month after month and eventually year after year she still showed up. She gave me the hope to continue, to realize that although something tragic had happened, although my life forever changed there was hope that everything could be okay. I remember asking her one day in high school (yes she followed me all the way through my high school graduation, she was even a letter of recommendation for my graduate program), how do I become you? How do I give back hope, hold hope for those who feel hopeless? I aspired to give someone the same feeling of safety, security and compassion she showed me, and thus my journey to becoming a social worker was born.”

I am truly drawn to the field of social work because of its profound capacity to embrace the entirety of an individual’s being. The social work framework doesn’t just focus on the psychological aspect of a person but rather takes into account the multifaceted nature of human experience. By examining the individual in the context of their age, education, income, attitudes, beliefs, trauma, as well as their interpersonal relationships, community connections, and societal influences, we gain a deeper understanding of the factors that shape one’s mental health.

In my practice, I wholeheartedly embrace a empathetic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered approach with all my clients. I believe that within each person lies a unique set of strengths and capabilities that can be harnessed to cultivate mental well-being and resilience. I hold the firm belief that each individual I work with is the expert of their own life. Your experiences, insights, and values are invaluable resources that we will leverage together to help you achieve your goals and navigate life’s challenges.

It is my guiding principle to walk alongside you on your personal journey to growth and healing. I am committed to standing by your side as we explore the paths towards your best self. I do not aim to lead or follow, but rather to be a supportive companion on this shared journey. My role is to empower you, to provide guidance and encouragement, and to help you discover the inner strengths and resources needed to overcome obstacles and thrive.

Together, we will navigate the ups and downs, the uncertainties and the victories, as we work towards enhancing your mental well-being and overall quality of life. Your journey is unique, and I am here to offer my unwavering support and partnership every step of the way.

Areas of focus: Relationship, Family Conflict, Self-Esteem, Motivation, Coping With Life Changes, Compassion Fatigue, Communication problems, Control issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia

Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Strengths Based

For more information go to my faqs page