While working in higher education, it quickly became apparent that my desire to help college students went beyond academic counseling, especially because the majority of students I worked with were either first generation college students, first year students, and often students of color or LGBTQIA+. Many of the students I supported as well as instructed in seminars would come to me for guidance beyond my scope of practice at the time, so I knew then that I wanted to return to graduate school to become a mental health counselor to better serve these and other communities.

I am most excited to work with clients who feel hopeful about healing, change, and growth despite the fears that come with life's uncertainty. These types of clients are open to trusting that I will support them through their journeys.

One thing I wish all clients knew is that they have more control than they may think they do when it comes to working with a counselor. They have the ability to redirect their course of treatment just as much as the counselor does, and it is beneficial to the therapeutic relationship to maintain an open line of communication about what is and isn't working for them - even if that means finding a new counselor to work with.

I chose to practice at Thriveworks because I was intentionally looking for a private practice environment that puts both clients and clinicians at the forefront. While I've enjoyed and appreciated the past experiences I've had, I've also witnessed and experienced intense burnout in the counseling field and wanted to practice at a place that not only preaches the importance of self-care but encourages it through management. The more I remain attuned to my own needs and self-care as a counselor, the better I can show up for the clients I see.

Clients can expect a genuine smile, kindness, warmth, and a lot of patience mixed with a desire and curiosity to get to know them better during their first session with me. My aim is to always provide a holding space of safety and comfort for clients and those around me.

I like to meet up with close friends for game nights, sing karaoke, spend time with my dog, and actually take long walks on the beach. For more relaxation, I watch romantic comedies, dramedies, or scifi, thriller, and medieval series, and I might be found baking cookies to tend to my sweet tooth!

One thing about me that defines me is my love of memes and internet humor.