Life is an exciting and beautiful journey, but it’s also full of challenges. At times, life is easy, but sometimes we feel like we’re suffering and are completely overwhelmed. Painful memories and concerns for the future may prevent us from being fully present and enjoying the blessings of today. It may be hard to find, but within all of us lies the strength to overcome all of life’s challenges. Wherever you’re at, I want you to know that it’s ok to ask for help.
I maintain a client-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. To create sustainable change and lasting relief, I believe it is important to explore and respect the brain-body connection. Together we may find a few moments of peace, some new skills to manage life’s stresses, or perhaps a new perspective that brings with it a refreshing wave of relief. As a former high school teacher, and now a mental health professional, I’ve worked with adults and adolescents from a wide range of backgrounds. I passionately embrace and celebrate the diversity of Chicago and I’m proud to advocate for creating a safe space for people of all cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. Clients working on integrating an LGBTQ* identity will find support and validation in my office.
I received my master of social work degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I’ve also received clinical training in EMDR therapy from EMDR Consulting. I specialize, primarily, in working with individuals who’ve experienced trauma. Whether it’s from a single incident or a complex history of chronic traumatic experiences, I aim to support my clients in developing awareness of, and tools to manage, the vast array of symptoms and stressors related to their adjustment to trauma. I often work with individuals who are experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, re-experiencing, dissociation, fear/avoidance, isolation, social distress, poor self-esteem, identity confusion, numbing, and addictions. The resilience that clients consistently demonstrate inspires me and I am grateful for every opportunity to support them on their path to recovery.
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety / Stress / Worry / Stress Management
Bereavement / Grief and Loss Counseling
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
EMDR Therapy
Gender Identity
LGBTQIA+ Care
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mood Disorders / Swings
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Self Esteem
Trauma
Languages spoken
English
Gender
Non-binary
Pronouns
they/them/theirs
In-network insurances
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Medicare
Self Pay
United
Education and training
University of Illinois at Chicago - Master of Social Work