My journey to becoming a therapist began in my late teens and early twenties. In undergrad I was fortunate to find a therapist at my college campus who listened to my pain with empathy and genuine concern. When I moved to a different city for grad school in my early twenties, I was in a troubled place and struggled to find a therapist who listened to me with the same genuine concern. I tried many therapists but struggled to find the right fit. Today, when I practice therapy I often think of my troubled self from the past, and it inspires me to be the therapist that I needed back then. That is the framework for the approach I use, which encompasses person centered, solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. Back then I required someone who was gentle and kind, but who also had good analytical skills to help me see the source of my misery and what I needed to become the best version of myself.

There is a wide range of clients I see for individual therapy. Some people come to therapy because they have work problems, family trouble, problems in relationships (of any kind) or difficulty becoming assertive. Ultimately, people seek therapy because they are hurt and need someone to hear and understand them, and the source of pain can be endless.

When I listen to my clients I listen to every part of them, both verbal and non-verbal, because every part of them is saying something. When I listen to my clients I listen with my body, heart and soul. I listen for what is said and what isn’t said. My professional goal is to connect with people and give them a space where they can hear themselves.

This is a foundation and framework; however, it isn’t everything that is needed in effective therapy. I want my clients to understand that counseling is a commitment and a collaborative effort. It is truly effective when clients are ready for the inward and reflective journey.