I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a long history of working in health care and mental health organizations. I earned a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Massachusetts and am pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Grand Canyon University.
My approach
I employ a holistic approach to mental health tailored to each individual's specific needs. I use a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, client-centered therapy, mindfulness therapy, and solution-focused therapy to help clients achieve their goals. Drawing from different approaches helps me understand the client in all their complexity and select the best treatment option to achieve the desired outcome successfully.
My focus
I work with a diverse population of different ages and backgrounds, and specialize in treating a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, grief, adjustment disorder personality disorders, relationship/marital issues, and more
My communication style
Creating a supportive and effective environment in therapy sessions is crucial in fostering trust and facilitating progress. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe and comfortable, supported and valued, heard and validated. In my sessions, the atmosphere is calm and relaxed, allowing clients to feel at ease to express their true selves without fear of judgment.
My journey to mental healthcare
I believe in therapy's power in helping people overcome difficulties and the empowerment it delivers in generating strength and resilience to flourish and live a more fulfilled life. I strive to build a therapeutic alliance with my clients constructed out of genuineness and empathy to create a safe place where the client feels supported and where together we can build a treatment plan that entails self-reflection and empowers growth and change.To be specific, everything that has occurred in my life and upbringing has fueled my fascination with learning about the lives, families, and experiences of other people. Growing up, I often found myself in the role of a listener and supporter for friends and family, which made me realize the profound impact that understanding and empathy can have on someone's well-being. This realization inspired me to pursue a career where I could use these skills to help others navigate their own challenges and improve their mental health.
My goals for you
Goal setting helps to provide direction, measure progress, and ensure that both I as the therapist and the client are aligned in our efforts. Before setting goals, it’s essential to build a strong therapeutic alliance where clients need to feel safe and supported. In goal setting, it is important to me that I understand the client’s background, current issues, strengths, and areas of concern. However goalsetting is collaborative work, where the client is invited to set meaningful and achievable goals that guide the therapeutic process effectively.
My first session with you
In my first session with the client, I aim to establish a strong, trusting relationship and create a safe and supportive environment in which the client feels comfortable sharing personal thoughts and feelings. I generally gather information about the client's history and background, current issues, and goals for therapy. I explain how therapy works, including the methods and techniques that may be used, and begin to address the most pressing issues or concerns.