Personal Statement
I value your story and your unique experience in the world. I work hard to set aside my own biases, interpretive concepts and diagnoses to take the time to really listen. I consider it an honor and privilege to support and guide others through the many challenges of life. I believe interventions and interpretations become relevant after first taking the time to really listen.
Who I Serve
Working with middle-schoolers, teens and their families is a specialty of mine— accounting for about two thirds of my practice. I particularly enjoy counseling those who may have had trouble connecting with professionals in the past. As such, I work to provide an environment that is safe, productive, and yes, even fun! I also spend time with parents equipping them with the skills they need to address long-standing conflicts and to rebuild their family relationships.
As someone who also studied the arts and sculpture, artists and creative types greatly interest me. Many artists have found therapeutic power in the process of creating and/or performing art––which can provide the artist with a great deal of emotional resiliency. Artists often see life in unconventional ways––something I knew as an asset for most creative types.
Specialty Treatment Areas
- Adolescent behavior problems
- Autism spectrum disorders
- OCD
- Parenting
- Peer conflict and bullying
Additional Treatment Areas
- Family Conflict
- ADD & ADHD
- Oppositional behavior
- Sandtray therapy
- Mood disorders
- Divorce support
- Social skills deficits
- Depression
- Addictions
- Anger & aggression
- Anxiety/Panic
- Emotional Regulation
- Difficulty with motivation
Theoretical Approach
My treatment methods are highly eclectic–typically adjusting my approach to the needs of each client–involving behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, religious, existential, and certain dynamic theories of change. It’s not uncommon for me to use play therapy, art therapy, and other expressive forms of treatment. I also look to professional research and incorporate ‘best practices’ to help decide what approach may be most effective for a particular client. I view each person holistically, and believe that many other forms of professional care can help facilitate change.
Insurance Networks
- Private pay
- BCBS PPO
- Cigna (Evernorth)
- Optum/UBH
Education/Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
- M.A. in Counseling Psychology at Trinity International University, Deerfield, IL
- B.A. in Philosophy at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL