I hold a Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) from Illinois State University and a Master of Science in Social Work (MSW), with an Advanced Clinical Practice Concentration, from Aurora University. As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who has been working with individuals, couples, and families, I have completed extensive training in the areas of advanced diagnosis, treatment, and management of personality disorders, as well as the applied neuroscience for treating anxiety, panic, and worry.
Over the past decade, I have gained experience working across a variety of mental health treatment settings, including community mental health, inpatient psychiatric and chemical dependency units, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient facilities. In addition, I have experience running DBT-based skills groups for teens and parents, as well as running therapeutic day programs for residential senior living communities. Currently, I am focused on working with individuals and couples who are grappling with anxiety and mood disorders, relationship issues, and unresolved trauma.
I use a humanistic and strengths-based approach in efforts to focus on what is working for an individual at the time they enter therapy. Moreover, to ask the question of “What happened to you, and how did you survive?” Versus “What is wrong with you?” In using this approach, it allows me to honor the innate wisdom of an individual’s efforts to persevere, despite adverse life experiences. I aim to create a healthy alliance between the mind and body to increase the strengths that exist within each of us, discover adaptive skills of managing current stressors, and create intrinsically motivating strategies for sustainable life change.
Some of the techniques that I incorporate into the therapeutic process include, but are not limited to: Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Integrative Psychotherapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Neuroscience-Informed Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Positive Psychotherapy, Biofeedback Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
Taking the first step towards seeking support can be both courageous and transformative. I commend you for prioritizing your well-being and personal growth. If you are ready to embark on a therapeutic journey where you will be seen, heard, and supported, I invite you to reach out.
SOMETHING PERSONAL:
Big fan of all things sports and a die-hard Cubs fan!
Animal lover and proud “Pawrent” to a Tortie cat named Tinkerbell
Music lover who appreciates all genres, though finds Hip-Hop to be oddly therapeutic!