About Me

My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and direct.  I like to help you make the best choices for yourself, rather than telling you what to do. During your session time, you can expect my full attention as I help you process your thoughts and feelings and gain insights. We also discuss how to apply what you’ve learned outside of sessions. This includes providing tools you can use outside of your sessions, planning ways for you to practice emotional well-being, and sometimes giving you referrals to other helpful resources. 

One of my strengths as a therapist is that I connect well to people from diverse backgrounds. I meet you exactly where you’re at, without judgment or preconceptions. We face your challenges together with persistence, compassion and humor. I highlight your successes and help you recognize your strength and resilience.

When you are accepted for exactly who you are, right at this moment, and when you know there is someone else who is willing to stay right there with you as you face your challenges, deep healing happens. I know this from personal experience.

Why I Love What I Do

I still remember how my legs were shaking the first time I walked into a therapist’s office. I sat down, full of silent worries. Would my therapist judge me for my actions or thoughts? All of my problems felt too big for me to handle – how could I expect anyone else to? Would therapy really help? Turns out, it really did! It’s the single best investment in myself I’ve ever made.

I come from a multicultural family with a military background. We faced many challenges, including a history of abuse that spans generations. I remember hearing about counseling as a child and thinking, “I definitely need that someday.” My family wasn’t the type to seek outside help, butI am grateful every single day that I had the courage to reach beyond what I’d known and look for more.

I always wanted to “live deeply and suck all the marrow out of life,” but I didn’t know how to get there on my own. Now I know that true for everyone. When we have experienced trauma (and all of us have to some degree or another), we rely on each other for healing. Sometimes, having a caring professional to guide you makes all the difference in the world!

When I first sought counseling, I was scared. I had no idea how therapy would help. There were definitely tough moments, especially at the beginning.  I had to work through the protective shell I’d shielded myself with for so long. I had to have the courage to open up to someone. But, once I did, my whole world changed. Once I was able to process the anger, fear, and hurt I felt, I was finally able to feel all my feelings again, including love, joy, hope. Therapy was a safe place to practice healthy communication and learn how to set boundaries. I released the shame I’d felt for so long and approached my life with new confidence and vigor.

I became a therapist because I love helping others experience the benefits of therapy, too.

Education & Training

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Master’s in Social Work from Texas State University.

My licensure is as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

I have training in many trauma-informed therapy techniques, such as Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Informed Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and others. Every year, I take professional trainings to further polish my clinical skills. I’m a prolific reader and love to learn and grow from the expertise of others.

I’m happy to answer any questions you have about my qualifications during your free consultation.

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