I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about me and the services that I can provide for you. I take pride in creating a warm and empathetic environment for each client I see. I hold great value in the power of being heard, seen, and validated for your emotional experiences. I guide my clients to gain better personal insight and clarity to better navigate life and relationships. To do this, it is of the utmost importance to have trust and consistency between the therapist and client. I strive to create a space where that trust can grow and one in which you feel seen and encouraged.
With the utilization of evidence-based treatments, I work with couples, adolescents, and adults to alleviate difficult symptoms as well as enhance emotional exploration. I join my clients on their journey to work through the negative effects of depression, anxiety, stressful life events, and transitions. I guide couples to a place of better connection and communication to enhance the relationship’s bond. No matter what challenge has brought you into therapy, I hope that my collaborative and empathetic approach will assist you in reaching your individual goals.
Individual Therapy with Adults – We will first begin by exploring the issues at hand and narrowing in on goals that you may have. Next, by understanding your personal strengths, we can begin to explore how therapy can be most beneficial for you. I offer guidance, but I emphasize the importance of individuals having control of the pace and outcome of our therapy. This creates a safe and reliable atmosphere to foster the highest potential for growth. After the initial “symptom relief” of what has brought you into therapy (e.g. interpersonal difficulties, emotional functioning, depression/anxiety, life transition), we can begin deeper work if you feel it would be helpful. I often look into long-held patterns of behavior (e.g. avoidance, lashing out) that could be affecting your life in a variety of ways. Together, we will work together striving to make each session impactful and beneficial for life outside of the therapy room.
Couples Therapy – Many times our romantic relationships are the most important connection we have, yet in our busy lives we may forget to prioritize them. Utilizing an Emotionally-Focused Therapy approach, we will create a space where our energy can be devoted completely to understanding and strengthening the relationship. We will begin by looking at the patterns we tend to have with our partner. Many couples find themselves in a similar “cycle” when having disagreements. By understanding the cycle fully, we can begin to do something different. The safe space created in the therapy room will allow partners to access their vulnerabilities, share them with their partner, and increase connection/emotional intimacy. I work with various couples including dating, married, monogamous, poly-amorous, and LGBTQ+.
Individual Therapy with Young Adults and Older Adolescents – Our teenage years can be the most difficult of our lives. As we are nearing adulthood, we may begin to question who we are and what we want out of life. This confusing time can lead to negative thoughts, harmful behavior, and anxiety/depression. It can feel at times like you have been thrown into the ocean with no life vest. Therapy can be utilized similar to a flotation device; allowing your head to come above water and see where you are headed. By creating a safe space, we can begin the journey together in getting where you want to be.
I received my Master’s degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida with a certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am currently a state Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern under the supervision of Dr. Jeanne Peterson, Florida License #PY6060. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of Tampa. I have served as a counselor intern at Metropolitan Ministries utilizing a trauma-informed approach. I have also worked as a counselor intern at Sustainable Family Services employing a family systems approach.
I am currently pursuing my Emotionally-Focused Therapy certification to employ with my individual and couple clients. I am excited about this plan to continue to expand my knowledge and skill set.