about MY clinical philosophy:

What it is:
I believe that our identities, backgrounds, communities, and lived experiences shape how we understand ourselves and move through the world. Effective therapy recognizes and respects these influences rather than treating them as separate from mental health.

What it looks like in practice:
Together, we may explore how culture, family, religion, race, gender, sexuality, disability, or other aspects of identity have influenced your experiences, relationships, and sense of self.

What it is:
Feminist Theory recognizes that our struggles do not occur in a vacuum. Social, cultural, and systemic factors often shape our experiences, opportunities, relationships, and well-being. This perspective values empowerment, collaboration, and examining the broader context in which problems develop.

What it looks like in practice:
Rather than viewing challenges solely as individual shortcomings, we may explore how societal expectations, power dynamics, gender roles, or systemic barriers have influenced your experiences and the choices available to you.

What it is:
I believe that every person possesses strengths, resilience, and resources that can support growth and healing. While therapy may address pain, challenges, or symptoms, I also believe it is important to recognize what is already working.

What it looks like in practice:
Together, we identify the qualities, values, relationships, and coping strategies that have helped you navigate difficulties in the past and explore how those strengths can support your current goals.

What it is:
Trauma-Informed Care recognizes that past experiences can shape how we think, feel, relate to others, and respond to stress. Rather than asking "What's wrong with you?" this perspective encourages us to ask, "What happened to you?" and "How has it affected you?"

What it looks like in practice:
I strive to create a therapeutic environment that emphasizes safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and respect. We move at a pace that feels appropriate for you while recognizing the impact past experiences may have on present challenges.

I am currently in the process of becoming a nationally Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).

What it is:
I view mental health as one part of a larger picture. Emotional well-being is influenced by our physical health, relationships, environment, life circumstances, and the many systems we interact with every day.

What it looks like in practice:
Alongside exploring thoughts and emotions, we may consider factors such as sleep, stress, medical conditions, relationships, work, family responsibilities, or lifestyle habits that may be affecting your overall well-being.