Hi! I have been fortunate enough to know since my first psychology class in high school that I wanted to be a therapist. I feel truly blessed to get to accompany a client on their self-discovery journey and have been doing so for over 35 years.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist my focus is on relationships (your relationship with yourself as well as your relationship with others) and how and why these can become a source of pain, frustration or trauma. I have an eclectic approach to helping my clients and incorporate psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy and other modalities to meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be.
I have a special interest in treating those with substance abuse issues - both the user as well as their families and friends who are negatively affected by the use. I am very well-versed in 12 Step programs and recovery. While acknowledging that 12 Step programs are not for everyone, I do believe in their worth and value.
I value reading and journaling and will encourage you to engage in these modalities in between sessions if you are open to it.
You can always expect me to be curious, respectful and kind. Our first session will help you explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get from it. I do not expect you to do all the talking and will ask questions and engage fully in the process with you. An important part of my role is to gently uncover any blind spots you may have as to your own behaviors and challenge any negative thinking. I think it is important to laugh, especially when life is challenging and will incorporate humor and playfulness where appropriate.
