I decided to become a counselor because I have a deep commitment to supporting children, teens, and families who have experienced trauma and adversity. Through my work as a social worker, family advocate, and forensic interviewer, I witnessed firsthand how abuse, complex trauma, anxiety, and depression can impact a person’s sense of safety, identity, and well-being. I was drawn to this work because I believe healing happens when people feel truly seen, heard, and supported, and I wanted to create a safe, compassionate space where individuals can build resilience, develop coping skills, and move forward with hope.

I work best with children, teens, and their caregivers who have experienced trauma and challenging life circumstances. I am especially skilled in supporting clients through sexual abuse, teen violence, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and women’s issues. I work with individuals and families who are seeking safety, healing, and stronger emotional resilience, helping them process difficult experiences, develop coping skills, and build confidence in a supportive, strengths-based, and culturally responsive environment.

I wish clients knew that healing doesn’t mean forgetting or erasing difficult experiences—it means learning how to live fully despite them. It’s also okay to feel uncertain, emotional, or even resistant at times. Therapy is a space where your feelings are valid, your experiences matter, and your growth is supported at your own pace, giving you the tools, understanding, and encouragement to reclaim your sense of safety, confidence, and well-being.

In the first session, clients can expect a welcoming and safe space where we focus on getting to know each other and understanding your unique experiences and concerns. I will ask questions about your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy, while also giving you space to share at your own pace. In the early stages of therapy, we work together to build trust, identify strengths, and begin exploring patterns, emotions, and experiences that may be impacting your well-being. Clients can expect a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where their feelings are validated, questions are welcomed, and a foundation is set for growth, healing, and positive change.

My approach as a therapist is shaped by values that are deeply important to me: transparency, respect, and a belief in each person’s inherent worth. I truly believe that every client has dignity, unique strengths, and the ability to grow, even when life feels overwhelming. In my work, I strive to be open and genuine, because I know how much it matters to feel heard and understood. I bring this mindset to every session, creating a space where children, teens, and families can feel safe to explore their experiences, work through challenges, and discover their own resilience and potential.

I tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs by first taking the time to understand their individual experiences, strengths, and goals. I recognize that every child, teen, and family responds differently to challenges, so I adapt my approach to match their developmental stage, cultural background, and personal preferences. I draw from trauma-informed and strengths-based methods, incorporating strategies that address specific concerns while also building on the client’s existing skills and resilience. Throughout therapy, I check in regularly, collaborate with clients on what’s working and what feels helpful, and adjust our approach so that each session is relevant, supportive, and empowering for their unique journey.