Life can be hard when you're struggling with a big change, whether that be starting a new job, returning to school, or making a big move. It's even harder when you're struggling with unresolved trauma, identity concerns, a developmental disorder, or anxiety and depression! Sometimes, it can feel like everything in life is working against you. Working together in therapy can be the first step toward making that burden more manageable, and I'm here to help.

I believe counseling should be an affirming, person-centered safe space for you to be your authentic self. As the client, I think you are the expert and the driver of your own life. Through our work together, I believe we can find who the authentic you is. We will process unresolved trauma together and help you build a more fulfilling life to move forward. You don't have to feel stuck!

I use a combination of various therapy models, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy for adolescents and Cognitive Processing Therapy for adults, in which clients learn the myriad ways in which trauma affects thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as the ways in which clients can change these patterns to improve their overall emotional well-being. My clinical treatment approaches have also included motivational interviewing; animal-assisted therapy; short-term solution-focused counseling; and mindfulness.

I was raised in the Shenandoah Valley of West Virginia where I developed my core values of compassion, acceptance and cultural humility. I received my Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Cultural Anthropology from Northwestern University in 2000 and taught courses in higher education for over twenty years. I received my Master of Science Degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2012.  My areas of interest include women's issues; conflict resolution; gender and ethnicity; and holistic approaches to diet and nutrition for the treatment of mental health disorders. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and have over 10 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, anxiety, and developmental disorders. My experience in the field of counseling ranges from working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including: employee assistance, intensive in-home, and community outpatient settings. I currently work with ages ranging from Adolescents (13-19) to Adults. When I am not at work, I am very a very active volunteer in my local community and enjoy spending time outside in nature.  

If you think we'd be a fit, reach out today. I look forward to working with you!

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