My passion for mental health began when I took psychology courses in college, where I developed a strong interest in understanding human behavior. That interest deepened when I began working with individuals with severe mental health conditions at a state hospital. Through that experience, I became increasingly committed to understanding the complexities of mental illness and supporting people in their healing. Over time, my curiosity evolved into a deep sense of purpose, and I felt called to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. 

I work best with clients who are motivated and open to learning about their conditions, as well as developing strategies to support their growth and recovery. I value clients who are engaged in the process and willing to collaborate, as this allows us to work together more effectively toward meaningful progress and lasting change.

I often compare therapy to physical exercise. If you have shoulder pain, you work to strengthen it through weight training and stretching over time. In the same way, therapy is a process of strengthening your mind. When you are experiencing symptoms such as depression or anxiety, consistent effort in therapy can help build healthier thought patterns, coping skills, and emotional resilience. Like exercise, progress takes commitment and practice, but with time and dedication, meaningful improvement is possible. In addition, research consistently shows that a combination of psychotropic medication and psychotherapy is often the most effective approach for many mental health conditions, as it addresses both biological and psychological aspects of well-being.

In the first session, I take time to get to know you and understand your background, current concerns, and goals for treatment. I ask a range of questions to gather important information, but it is always okay to share only what you feel comfortable discussing at the beginning. My priority is to create a safe, supportive, and empathetic space where you can feel at ease. In the early stages of therapy, we focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship, clarifying your goals, and beginning to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and progresses at a pace that feels right for you. 

I emphasize authenticity, compassion, and autonomy in my practice. I value being genuine and transparent in my interactions, creating a space where clients feel seen and respected. Compassion allows me to approach each person with empathy and understanding, especially as they navigate their unique challenges. I also strongly support autonomy, ensuring that clients are active participants in their care and have a voice in shaping their treatment. These values guide my work and help create a safe, collaborative environment where meaningful growth and healing can take place.

I tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs by conducting in-depth assessments and gaining a thorough understanding of their history, strengths, and goals. I develop individualized treatment plans and may assign customized homework to reinforce progress between sessions. I also incorporate culturally responsive techniques to ensure care is respectful and relevant to each person’s background and experiences. Throughout the process, I remain flexible and continuously adjust my approach based on your feedback and evolving needs, ensuring that treatment remains effective and aligned with your goals.

Yes - when clinically appropriate, CLINICIAN may prescribe both non-stimulant and stimulant medication for the treatment of ADHD.