People who know me well say I'm caring, curious, and..funny. I enjoy getting to know the people I encounter in life: their worldview, what is important to them, and what makes them laugh. Beautiful moments and stories make me weep.
I am an Illinois licensed clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience helping individuals coping with grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, family conflicts, improving motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and addictions.
I take a person-centered approach when working with my clients. This means that our work is collaborative and based on your goals for the specific areas you'd like to focus on. I collaborate with clients to explore their entire person: your physical and mental health, your core beliefs and history, your living and working environments, and what gives your life meaning and purpose. I endeavor to meet my clients where they are. I do not view my clients as "having problems" or worse, "being a problem". Rather, we are just human beings having human experiences - and, because humans are social beings, we often need to turn to others for help. Healing is a process of discovery and change. The support and guidance of a therapist can help bring out the best in you. Together we embark on a path of exploration and discovery. We identify your strengths and confront and learn to cope with challenges. Your best self emerges, and you'll discover that creating and maintaining meaningful relationships, and enhancing your enjoyment of life is not only possible, it is an adventure.
In our first session we will start off with getting to know each other. After going over your intake assessments and rules of confidentiality, I will ask you to tell me what is on your mind and some of your story. You are in charge of what you share and when. I will also invite you to ask me questions or raise any areas of concern you may have regarding our work together.
