About Me
Being a human is hard. Am I right?? Sometimes, it gets to be too much. Here’s the thing, you don’t have to do it all alone. That’s what I’m here for. Ever thought, “what am I doing with my life!?” I got you! Therapy gives you the opportunity to figure out what's keeping you stuck. Developing insight is never time wasted. You are uniquely you so there is not one size that fits all when it comes to therapy. I will draw from various techniques and theoretical frameworks to meet you where you are while focusing on the relationship that we build together as the vehicle that moves you toward the change you want.
So, you might be thinking, “Okay, I get it and I’m ready to get started but what now?” First, you are going to take a deep breath….did you do it? Good, now tell yourself that you are a rockstar for choosing to take care of yourself. Cheesy? Sure, but it’s true! That’s the hard part. Next, click here to fill out the contact form. You’ll get a message back to see how ready you are to move forward. Is it a “Let’s do this, get me scheduled!” or “I’m pretty sure I’m ready but let’s talk first.” Either is perfect because you are doing what’s best for you. I’m here for that! I can't wait to chat with you and start figuring shit out! Once we’ve connected, if you're coping with issues that are outside my area of expertise or specialty, I'll provide you with some referrals that might be a better match.
Substance Abuse
I have extensive training and experience in working with individuals and families impacted by addiction at different stages of the addiction. Addiction is a complex illness, and the treatment should be adapted to the needs of the individual. I approach my work through a harm-reduction lens. Abstinence-only is not for everyone. As we work together, we may find that it is the best approach for you but we will arrive there together after extensively reviewing your history and other barriers to shrinking the significance of the addiction in your life. Addiction is also not limited to substances. Food, shopping, exercise, gambling, sex, and relationships also can become the center of your life. Reach out if any of these behaviors have gotten out of control and are holding you back from aligning yourself with your values.
I will assist with referrals to higher levels of care if your needs are greater than what I can offer.
I offer case consultation services to other therapists regarding substance abuse clients. I am also available to consult with friends or family members who are unsure of how to help a loved one who is struggling with their addiction.
Depression
Feeling worthless. Can’t get out of bed. Not eating. Overeating. Insomnia. Irritable. Sad. Crying. Depression may look different for each person but those are some of the signs that you need to talk to someone. You don’t have to face this alone. Reach out today.
Anxiety
Anxiety can rear its head in all of us. It’s natural. However, for some it’s taking away the ability to enjoy life. The bigger the anxiety becomes the more you avoid and the more you avoid the smaller you're life feels. It doesn’t have to be this way! Let’s build up your ability to cope and manage this so that you can claim your life back.
Grief and Loss
Losing someone you love is the most unimaginable pain. Who knew it would physically hurt so badly!? You have lost touch with what’s up and what’s down. Grief doesn’t ever go away but together we can build you up so that you can find your way forward. You’ll discover you are stronger than you know.
Life Transitions
The one constant in life is change. Getting whiplash from the constant changing current in your life? I would love to help you build the skills you need to manage the transitions in your life. Maybe your off to college or it’s your kids that are leaving the house for college for the first time. If the “new” in your life such as marriage, parenting, career changes, have you wondering who you really are then let’s talk.
Relationship Issues
Have you lost yourself in your relationship? Worse—maybe your relationships are toxic but you find yourself stuck in the same patterns and with the same type of person time and time again. Once we dig in and explore the patterns you won’t be able to unsee those patterns. Knowledge is power. You are going to learn to listen to yourself and trust yourself while you heal from the wounds of the past.
EMDR
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Try saying that 5x. That’s a mouthful for sure. So what does it mean? EMDR is a specific therapeutic approach designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain. Since its development by Francine Shapiro in the 1980s, it has been widely researched and has also expanded from treating primarily veterans with PTSD to anxiety, phobias, depression, chronic pain disorders, grief and loss, addiction, and much more. Learn more about EMDR here.
Perinatal Mental Health
The perinatal period is the time period in the mother’s life from conception following the first year after delivery. There are unique mental health challenges that can arise in pregnancy and in the postpartum period. As a mother and therapist, this topic is close to my heart. I am Certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) and am ready to support mama’s at any stage of the journey. Learn more about perinatal mental health here
In-Person Therapy Sessions: Tips and Tricks
So, you've scheduled your first in-person therapy session—awesome! But now you might be wondering, “What should I do to get ready?” No worries, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few simple tips to make your in-person therapy experience smooth, comfortable, and maybe even a little fun!
1. Get Comfy
Dress like you’re meeting up with a friend—something cozy but not quite pajama-level cozy. You want to feel relaxed, but awake and ready to dive into the session. Think comfy jeans or your favorite sweater.
2. Bring a Notebook (or Just Your Phone)
You might have some thoughts or questions pop up before your session, so jot them down! Whether it’s in a notebook or on your phone, having a place to capture your thoughts can help keep you focused on what you want to talk about.
3. Show Up a Little Early
Give yourself a few extra minutes before your session to sit, breathe, and settle in. It’ll help you transition from the busyness of the day to the calm of therapy. Plus, being a bit early means less stress about running late!
4. It’s OK to Be Nervous
Seriously, it’s totally fine to feel a little anxious before your session—most people do! Just remember, this is your space, and your therapist is here to help, not judge. Take a deep breath and know it’s all part of the process.
5. Be Open, Even If You’re Not Sure What to Say
It’s okay if you don’t know where to start—your therapist is there to help guide the conversation. Just be open to sharing, even if you’re not sure how to explain what you’re feeling. It’s a judgment-free zone, and every step forward counts.
Therapy is all about you, so come ready to be yourself, relax, and let the process unfold. These tips are just to make the experience a little easier, so you can focus on what really matters—your growth and healing!
