Let me Introduce Myself
My Approach to Therapy
I recognize that growth can be scary and serious stuff. Sharing your most vulnerable stories and emotions with someone who starts out as basically a stranger is weird. And sometimes it can be hard not only emotionally but also logistically to put words on our experiences.
Connection is key. I show up to each session as my authentic self - not a cold professional. I strive to bring an element of playfulness into each session to help clients feel at ease. I believe that creative activities, such as drawing and games, can help bring an understanding to experiences when words fail us.
My aim is for each client is to both explore emotional depths and laugh throughout our work together.
About Me
Originally from Pennsylvania, I grew tired of the northern winters and decided to re-locate to the south permanently after graduate school.
I’m a former college swimmer (read: competitive), a puzzle enthusiast, an occasional artist, and a budding violinist (I started taking lessons in 2022).
I love spending time outdoors, especially hiking and creek walking with my pup, Rocky. I also appreciate a night in watching reality dating or cooking shows and chuckling to myself at memes.
Credentials
M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Vanderbilt University (2020)
BA from Colgate University (2015)
Trained in Comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Experience utilizing Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP)
License #5137
Specialties
While I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, my passion lies with pre-adolescents and adolescents (about ages 10 and up). This age group is especially vulnerable to struggles with emotional and behavioral outbursts, social isolation, perfectionism, and ongoing crisis or safety issues as they learn to navigate the world more independently and explore identity.
I believe that by addressing the emerging signals mood disorders (depression and anxiety) and personality disorders (which are more deep-rooted difficulties) in adolescence, individuals are more equipped to move into adulthood.
Wait! Tell me more about Rocky!
Rocky is a therapy dog in training! He is an F1 Cavapoo (half Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, half Poodle), which means he does not shed and is hypoallergenic! He is considered a small/medium breed, weighing in at about 30 pounds.
Rocky loves to provide comfort and happiness through cuddles and puppy kisses. He is friendly with other dogs, adults, and wags his tail especially fast around children and adolescents.