Personal Statement
I believe meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and accepted. From there, therapy becomes a collaborative journey. I walk alongside each client, offering support and encouragement as they build on their strengths and work toward their goals.
This approach is especially important when working with adolescents. I became a therapist because I wanted to be a consistent source of support for young people as they navigate life’s challenges. Adolescence can be a time of tremendous growth, but it can also bring uncertainty, emotional struggles, and changing relationships. I enjoy partnering with teens and their families to help each adolescent build confidence, develop resilience, and better understand themselves. At the same time, I believe parents are an essential part of the process and strive to ensure they feel informed, supported, and empowered along the way.
“All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and somebody who believes in them.” – Magic Johnson
Who I Serve
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem concerns. I am especially passionate about supporting girls and young women as they build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of self-worth. With years of experience working with young people, I strive to be a steady and reliable presence during life’s challenges.
I also enjoy providing parenting support when working with families, as well as through coaching in separate parent-focused sessions.
Specialty Treatment Areas
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Identity/Self-esteem
- Emotional regulation
Additional Treatment Areas
- Emerging adulthood
- Domestic violence and teen dating violence
- Stress
- PTSD
- Parenting support and coaching
Theoretical Approach
I practice an eclectic approach by drawing from various counseling theories to best support each unique client. My foundation as a therapist is rooted in Person-Centered Therapy, where the client helps guide the focus of each session based on their current concerns. At the same time, I believe it is important to incorporate structured topics and activities to help us work toward the goals we set together.
Some of the research-based approaches I utilize include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Strengths-Based Therapy.
Insurance Networks
- Private pay
- Aetna
- BCBS PPO
- Cigna (Evernorth)
- TriCare
- BCBS Community Health (Medicaid)
- Meridian (Medicaid)
Education/Certifications
- Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
- Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Northern Illinois University
- Bachelor’s in Psychology - Illinois State University
Affiliations/Memberships
- American Counseling Association
- Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling