I help adults and teens who have experienced trauma find ease and joy again. I have a particular passion for working with survivors of relational trauma, however I work with all types of emotional wounds. Additionally, I work with phobias, OCD, and anxiety.
Originally from Salt Lake City, I spent a few years in New York City (which still has my heart) before moving to southern California to be closer to family. Outside of work you can find me reading, scrolling through TikTok, skiing, or climbing. I am licensed in California, New York, and New Jersey.
What does a typical session with you look like?
Our sessions will usually start with a check-in on how the last week has been, and from there we will decide together what to work on in that session. This can include talking through current stressors, working on integrating new coping skills, or reprocessing trauma. My approach to therapy is based on the belief that a strong and trusting relationship is the most important piece. I’m laid back and authentic in sessions and take a collaborative approach – meaning that I always want to hear from you if what we have been trying is helpful or not.
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
My first semester of college I signed up for an intro to social work course, not knowing what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to discover a field that blended so many things I was passionate about: understanding the human mind, understanding how systemic issues impact individuals and families, and advocating for community based changes. Prior to entering private practice, I worked in a variety of settings as a therapist including transitional housing for families and substance abuse clinics.
What is one thing that you have learned through your own therapy?
That talking about and analyzing our feelings is not the same thing as truly feeling and processing them!
Is there an example from your daily life where you practice what you preach?
My favorite ways to tend to my emotional health throughout the week include journaling, finding joyful movement, and making sure I get adequate rest. As a general rule, I never suggest a technique or skill to clients that I haven’t taken for a “test drive” myself.
Short Term (Solution-focused, etc.)
Ideal for those who are coming in with a specific problem they’d like to address and gain clarity on. Typically, short term therapies are present focused and do not dive deep into your past.
Structured
Structured therapies are goal and progress oriented. Therapists may incorporate psychoeducation and a specific “curriculum.” In order to stay on track, therapists may provide worksheets and homework.
Insight-oriented (Psychodynamic, Existential, etc.)
Exploring the past and making connections to present issues can help clients gain insight. Getting to the root of the issue and finding deeper self-awareness can help with long-term change.
Non-directive (Humanistic, Person-centered, etc.)
Going with the flow and seeing where it leads.
Behavioral (CBT, DBT, etc.)
Focuses on changing potentially unhealthy or self-destructive behaviors by addressing problematic thought patterns and specific providing coping skills.
Trauma Focused (EMDR, TF-CBT, etc.)
Recognizing the connection between trauma experiences and your emotional and behavioral responses, trauma focused therapy seeks to help you heal from traumas.