Prior to relocating to my native Baltimore and beginning in private practice, I practiced in various clinical settings including community mental health centers, therapeutic schools, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and medical hospitals. I received my bachelor degree in Psychology from Carnegie Mellon University and my Doctorate of  Psychology (Psy.D.) from The George Washington University. Before I returned to school for my doctoral degree, I worked as an early childhood educator.

I collaborate with clients to both alleviate troubling symptoms and to understand the life circumstances and dynamics that may accompany these symptoms. My therapy approach aims to facilitate self-awareness and understanding, as I believe that self-exploration can lead to an increased sense of vitality and meaning in life. I approach my work with each client individually and I am thoughtful about designing my interventions to meet the client’s presenting issues and personal therapy goals. My style is genuine and approachable, and I work to bring empathy, care, and compassion to every therapeutic interaction.

I take an eclectic approach to therapeutic interventions, using a combination of attachment based, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, existential, and mindfulness techniques. Additionally, I agree with Dr. Irving Yalom’s statement, “Therapy should not be theory-driven but relationship-driven.” All change in therapy occurs within the context of the therapeutic relationship, and research suggests that the relationship between therapist and client is one of the most important contributing factors to success in therapy. I make every effort to foster a trusting, safe, and warm therapy relationship with each of my clients. I highly value therapist-client fit. If I am not the best therapist to meet your needs, I am happy to provide referrals or connect you with a different therapist.

When working with children, I consider parents to be part of the treatment team. I typically alternate individual child sessions with parent guidance sessions. I utilize a combination of play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy in my individual work with children.

I work with children, adolescents, and adults on various issues including: anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship difficulties, identity development, substance use disorders, coping with medical conditions, body image problems, grief/loss, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ related issues. I enjoy collaborating with other professionals when it is clinically indicated and when such contact is requested by my clients. I am often part of a treatment team with psychiatrists, physicians, pediatricians, school counselors, and nutritionists.