Counseling Center

It takes courage to be open and vulnerable. I cherish the moment a client decides to share their vulnerabilities with me, or when a child invites me to play along. I know these moments bring about trust, and a client’s trust means everything to me. My overall goal with each session is to provide a safe and accepting environment while empowering clients to become the best versions of themselves.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. Additionally, I have completed specialized training with Postpartum Support International which allows me to assist women throughout their motherhood journey. My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, life-changes, grief, low self-esteem, anger, parenting struggles, family of origin issues, behavioral challenges, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I work with children (ages 3-6), adolescents, women, and parents. I utilize a strengths-based approach and tailor sessions based on individual needs. My approach incorporates techniques from Adlerian Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Pregnancy and Postpartum Mental Health: 1 in 7 women will experience a mood or anxiety disorder during pregnancy or postpartum. Pregnancy and the postpartum phase can stir up many powerful emotions such as excitement, joy, exhaustion, loneliness, and even fear. You are not alone in feeling a range of emotions. Many women have felt this way too. In sessions I work to provide psychoeducation, validation, resources, and most importantly hope as you navigate through motherhood.

Play Therapy and Parenting Sessions: When working with children, I utilize play therapy, which is an evidenced-based approach to help children identify their emotions and process through various challenges within a safe and nurturing environment. While adults use words to express their thoughts and feelings, children use the power of play to express their view of the world around them. I wholeheartedly believe that a child's growth in therapy soars when the entire family is involved. I encourage parents to participate in parent consultation sessions which allows me to provide resources, support, and parenting strategies. Further, consultation sessions are a great way for both parents to feel involved in their child’s therapy. As a mother of two, I know parenting can be challenging at times. My hope is that through collaboration each family member feels valued and connected.

Adolescents: When working with adolescents, I strive to create a non-judgmental and trusting atmosphere. I often incorporate expressive therapies into the sessions with my adolescent clients. This can include: sandtray, art directives, and sometimes play therapy. Expressive therapies increase feelings identification and can offer a new perspective on presenting concerns. Further, I encourage regular parent consultations to ensure everyone is actively working toward therapeutic goals.

Life Outside of Therapy: Most of my clients know that I strongly believe in the importance of self-care. My self-care includes spending quality time with my husband and children, reading a book, going for a run, spending time outdoors, and occasionally splurging at Target.

I look forward to forming a trusting relationship with you or your child! Feel free to contact me with any questions.