Approach to Therapy:

I believe that therapy has the capacity to change the way we view ourselves, our approach to relationships, and how we move through life. As a therapist, I strive to cultivate a non-judgmental and trauma-informed space where clients will feel seen and accepted in all of their complexity. Warmth, humor and curiosity are central to my therapeutic style, and I find that building trust and connection with my clients is the foundation of our work.

Leading with compassion and respect for clients’ innate capacity for growth, I use an experiential, emotion-focused approach aimed at creating space for clients to explore and process their emotions, internal narratives and past life events. Implementing research-informed techniques, I support clients in shifting patterns in their lives that are causing discomfort. This may involve delving into past experiences, exploring self concept, and understanding the ways that culture, identity and upbringing influence clients’ beliefs about themselves.

Using a systemic lens, I recognize that we all exist within larger systems - families, communities, and society as a whole. In my work with couples and families, I strive to understand the needs and perspectives of each member of a system to ensure a collaborative approach. Incorporating a social justice framework, I acknowledge the immense impact of structural barriers, inequality and marginalization on the everyday lives of my clients. My ultimate goal is to facilitate clients living their most authentic and empowered lives.

Clinical Interests:

I work with individuals, couples and families as they navigate life’s difficulties, specializing in LGBTQ+ and polyamorous clients. My clinical focuses include life transitions, identity work, self-concept, self-esteem, codependency, grief, anxiety and depression. In my work with couples and families, I support clients in shifting their communication patterns in real time with the goal of increasing trust, clarity and connection. My clinical framework is integrative but is most informed by Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

I see clients in person at the Ravenswood and Avondale locations as well as virtually.

Education and Training:

I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Anthropology from Carnegie Mellon University. Following my undergraduate studies, I spent 5 years working in community mental health at Cascadia Health in Portland, OR, supporting those struggling with severe and persistent mental illness who were transitioning out of the criminal justice system. I then completed my Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northwestern University in Illinois. While at Northwestern University, I received extensive training at the Bette Harris Clinic, providing systemic therapy to individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds. I also worked as a Graduate Student Assistant to Dr. Alexandra Solomon, providing support with the development of workshops, media appearances, content creation and more. In addition, I served as Teaching Assistant for Marriage 101: Building Loving and Lasting Relationships, a popular undergraduate course at Northwestern University.

3 Things I love:

Exploring new places, writing, and freshly baked brownies.