After having been a licensed social worker for approximately nineteen (19) years, I wanted to explore an area to enhance my professional development and career. I would like to generalize my skills in the field of mental health with a short term goal of becoming credentialed as a Diplomate in Social Work with several long term goals of prescribing medication; conducting research in the area of PTSD; and providing instruction on the collegiate level.

I am most experienced in providing services to individuals who have the following diagnoses: Depressive Disorders; Anxiety Disorders; PTSD; Mood Disorders; ADHD; and Psychosis with co-occurring Substance Use Disorders.

I am most excited to work with individuals that are motivated for change or have a desire to get better.

At times, we all encounter or experience stressors that require the utilization of skills; therefore, it is important for me as a therapist to assist my clients with normalizing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

I chose to practice at Thriveworks as it provides opportunity for me to further develop my skills as a seasoned professional and to expand my knowledge base as Thriveworks employs a variety of disciplines; thus, providing opportunity to work in a team consultative environment.

What inspires me to be a better me usually occurs when I see my clients accomplish their goals and thriving, i.e., experiencing an overall improvement in depressive, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms.

I prefer for clients to have some ability to discuss their experiences that have been occurring from the previous three (3) to six (6) months and how these experiences have impacted their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, i.e., isolation or avoidance from others.

I utilize the first session as a meet and greet to assist with establishing rapport and developing trust in the therapeutic relationship; thus, developing an understanding of your needs and experiences that impact you from day to day.

During your first session, one (1) should anticipate developing an individualized goal to ensure that one (1) achieves his/her desired outcome; some examples include: develop coping skills; understand my anger; develop an awareness of self. Developing a goal assists with monitoring progress and keeps the therapy focused...developing a balance in one's ability to discuss freely their thoughts and feelings with specific interventions/skills to alleviate these symptoms.

I love to cook and bake on my time off. When relaxing, I like to watch movies, travel and spending time with family and friends.

I would describe myself as a non-professional as supportive, caring, and being available outside of business hours to help those experiencing crisis while maintaining boundaries with self and others.