In what ways does your personality influence your approach to therapy?
I have a very laid back, easy going personality with a sense of humor naturally. I have been told that I am very professional but also know when to insert humor in a professional manner to ease situations or conversations. Also, with my laid back personality I take feedback and understand to meet my clients where they are at and listen to feedback from them when they may not like what techniques I am utilizing. I do not take things personally and I am willing to listen.
Were there lessons in your professional or academic career that left an impression on you, and how has that informed your work today?
My work in corrections will forever leave a lasting impression on my professional career and my work moving forward. I have learned to be patient, show respect (which should be a given but I have seen it not shown all the time), listen to everyone no matter the opinion, and truly meeting my clients where they are at. I have learned that I cannot force anyone to do anything and I am here to help my clients in their own uniques paths get to where they want to be. These paths all look different and I am here to listen and learn how to navigate them.
What do you think is the biggest barrier today for people seeking care?
I feel the biggest barrier today for people seeking care is finding a therapist that they truly enjoy working with. Just as every person has their own personalities, that also goes with therapist. Every therapist is a person with a personality and their own approaches.
Specialties
Depression
Anxiety
Addiction
Bipolar disorder
Trauma
General Expertise
Relationship Issues
Loss/Grief
Self-Esteem
Social Anxiety
Academic challenges
ADHD
Adolescent mental health
Anger management
Fees
$100
First Session
$90
Family Therapy
$85
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Family Session
Individual Session
Clientele
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Children (5-12)
Adolescents (13-17)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness Practices
Strength Based Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Person-Centered Therapy
Psychodynamic Therapy
Training / Certifications
TF-CBT
CBT
Seeking Safety
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor
Motivational Interviewing
Mindfulness
Licensure
IL, LCSW, 149.021819
Education
Master of Social Worker, Aurora University
Work History
Hi! I have a variety of work history that I would love to explain! I started my career working with adolescent males in an inpatient substance abuse program! This first experience led me to following my love for working with individuals with substance use disorders and mental health concerns! Since my very first experience I have been able to work in community mental health in various agencies, work in corrections with all male population addressing substance abuse, mental health, and criminal thinking, and now working in private practice with individuals with both mental health and substance abuse concerns! I also work part time working with kids that have been sexually abused and I am currently in school to get even more education to be able to work in a school next fall as a school social worker! I know that is a lot but I have gained extensive skill set with these experiences to best fit many different concerns and needs!
Location
123 Main st., Ottawa, 61350, IL