Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Merrillville, IN covered by Aetna

I’m an easy‐going, friendly therapist who believes therapy works best when you can be your real self—no pressure, no judgment. I bring a balance of empathetic listening, humor, and practical tools into our work together. Think of it like having someone who can both sit in the hard stuff with you and help lighten the load when you need a moment to breathe. I enjoy working with: Individuals experiencing depression, stress, anxiety, life transitions; Parents and families navigating communication issues or conflict; Preteens, Teens, and young adults, elderly; Individuals healing from difficult family dynamics or patterns; Caregivers.

Clients should know that I’m a real person first and a therapist second. I actually started my career in sports management, but life had other plans — and a series of lived experiences pulled me toward social work in a way that felt impossible to ignore. I went on to complete my MSW at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, IN, and I’ve spent the last ten years working in child protection, community health, and hospital social work in a Level 1 trauma facility.

I also spent years as a caregiver, which made me especially comfortable working with older adults and taught me that humor, patience, and a good cup of coffee can get you through almost anything. I’m nearing completion of my PST therapy certification, which adds a structured, problem‐solving lens to the work we do.

I take therapy seriously, but I don’t take myself too seriously — so you can expect warmth, honesty, and the occasional well‐timed laugh when life hands us something so absurd it deserves one.

As a licensed mental health counselor, I believe everyone deserves a kind space to feel better and grow stronger. Taking the step to reach out is brave, so I’m proud of you for being here! I earned my master’s at Indiana State University and bring three years of caring experience to Ember Life Counseling. I specialize in helping kids with play-based support, trauma recovery, anxiety, relationships, and life changes in ways that feel right for you. I’m warm and energetic, and I’d love to welcome you!

When life looks “fine” from the outside but feels overwhelming on the inside, therapy can help you slow down and find your footing again. I’m an LCSW with nearly 30 years of experience in the mental health field and over 20 years providing therapy to adults navigating anxiety, burnout, chronic stress, emotional overwhelm, work-life imbalance, and major life transitions. I especially enjoy working with high-functioning professionals who are used to carrying a lot for others while quietly struggling with pressure, perfectionism, or exhaustion themselves.

Clients often describe my style as calm, steady, practical, and deeply supportive. I help you make sense of what is driving your stress, understand the patterns underneath your anxiety or burnout, and build realistic steps that help you feel more grounded, clear, and in control. I draw from CBT, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based strategies, but I tailor the work to your pace, needs, and goals. If you’re feeling stuck, drained, or ready for something to shift, I offer a space where you can breathe, regroup, and move forward with greater confidence.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am passionate about inspiring people on along their change journey. Hearing the words, “you can’t”, “you will never amount to anything”, or believing that your circumstances define your future can be daunting and make you feel worthless. I am here to tell you that none of that is true. Change is attainable! I can help! Let me assist you with navigating through those difficult emotions by learning healthy coping skills designed to create a positive image built on self-love, self-worth which will aid in fulfilling and meaningful relationships. Once the layer of trauma has been peeled back, you will develop insight into patterns that no longer serve you and begin the journey of rediscovering You!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Ph.D. in Sociology, bridging clinical practice and research. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating depression, life transitions, racial/ethnic identity and relational challenges, and burnout, with a focus on college students, young adults, Black women, and other people of color. Using a relational approach to therapy, I strive to create a space where you feel safe and empowered to embrace your authentic self. My goal is to help you move through your experiences with clarity and a deeper connection to who you truly are.

Hi! I have a LCSW with a MSW. By integrating evidence-based practices such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, CPT, and ACT, I will work alongside you to develop practical strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving your goals.