Life Transition, Anxiety, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Substance Use
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Kathleen
I am a licensed social worker (LSW) with 4 years of experience. I largely work with adults experiencing anxiety or depression, stress, trauma, substance use disorders, or life transitions. I take a person-centered approach and collaborate with each client to develop realistic and relevant goals for therapy. My professional experience includes outpatient settings and opioid treatment programs.
I earned my Master of Social Work from Fairleigh Dickinson University. I use techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
I know how hard it can be to ask for help—it feels vulnerable. I'm hoping to make the next step as smooth as possible. I hope to create a safe space where you can feel heard, but also motivated. If you're seeking encouragement with validation and empathy, your progress toward healing and growth can start here.
"As someone who has struggled and loved someone who has struggled, I carry tons of empathy for those who have been impacted by a mental health diagnosis."
Get to know Kathleen
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I decided to become a counselor based on my own experiences with mental health struggles. I wanted to be someone who could provide support to people like myself. I feel that my past has shaped my counseling style and how I connect with clients.
What types of clients do you work best with?
I have a calm demeanor and offer a quiet, welcoming space. I work best with people who are seeking a safe space to feel validated and understood. I would be a good fit for people who require encouragement but also appreciate empathy.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew about therapy, mental health, or the healing process?
I wish people understood that progress is not linear. There can be ups and downs to the healing process and each step teaches us how to better prepare for the next.
What can clients expect in their first session with you and in the early stages of therapy?
In the early stages of therapy, I like to take time getting to know people, such as their interests and reasons for deciding to seek counseling. I like to keep it casual until we both feel like a strong therapeutic relationship has been built. I welcome people to share as much or as little as they'd like early on in therapy.
What personal experiences or values inform your practice as a therapist/provider?
My experiences with mental health struggles and witnessing loved one's struggle have shaped my practice. I have tons of empathy for people like me who have tried to manage a mental health diagnosis, but also for those who are trying to help someone they love to manage theirs.
How do you tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs?
After I get to know someone and understand their needs, I like to focus on what tools would work best, such as homework or role playing. I typically include clients on the decision-making process on which options to utilize, as I feel therapy should be collaborative.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 4 years
- Graduating institute
- Fairleigh Dickinson University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Social Work
Additional details
Practice information
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