I became a counselor because I’ve always been drawn to the spaces where people are hurting but still trying. I’ve seen firsthand how unaddressed grief, trauma, substance use, and stress can shape a person’s development and relationships. I want to be someone who doesn’t just observe that pain, but actively helps people make sense of it and grow through it. Counseling allows me to blend my passion for mental health, my training in developmental psychology, and my commitment to advocacy into meaningful, life-changing work.

I work best with clients who may feel misunderstood, overwhelmed, or “stuck” in patterns they’re tired of repeating. Whether that’s anger, grief, anxiety, relationship conflict, or low self-worth. I especially enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, men, and individuals impacted by family substance use, trauma, or complicated family systems. My ideal clients are not perfect or “ready” in every way; they’re simply willing to be honest, show up as they are, and explore change one step at a time.

I wish every client knew that healing is not a straight line and that needing help does not mean you are weak or “broken.” Progress often looks like small shifts in how you think, feel, and respond. It's not a complete overnight transformation. It’s normal to have setbacks, doubts, or moments where you question the process. Those moments aren’t failure; they’re part of the work, and we can use them to better understand what you need.

In our first session, you can expect a calm, nonjudgmental space where we focus on getting to know you as a person; not just a diagnosis or a “problem.” I’ll ask about what brought you to therapy, what you’re hoping for, and what has or hasn’t helped in the past. Early on, we’ll work together to clarify your goals and begin identifying patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. You can expect a mix of listening, gentle questioning, and practical tools, all at a pace that feels manageable for you.

My work is grounded in values of respect, authenticity, cultural humility, and belief in people’s capacity to grow even in hard circumstances. My professional experience in community mental health, substance use treatment, and working with youth and families has shown me how environment, systems, and generational patterns shape behavior. I bring a deep respect for resilience and a commitment to meeting clients where they are, not where others think they “should” be. I also value accountability and honesty in the therapeutic relationship, we can’t change what we won’t name.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. I draw from CBT, REBT, mindfulness, trauma-informed approaches, and strength-based work, but how we use them depends on who you are, your background, and what you’re facing. Some clients need more structure and skills; others need more space to process emotions, grief, or identity. I regularly check in about what’s working, what isn’t, and adjust our plan so it stays relevant, culturally sensitive, and aligned with your goals and capacity in this season of your life.