In what ways have your personal experiences influenced your work with your clients?
With a focus on couples and families, it is hard to not have personal experiences influence my work. I live what I practice. That is, as I stay up to date on the best most effective practices within the field, I too implement them within my own relationships with my husband and family. Sometimes we too have to practice what we preach.
How do you determine therapy goals with clients? What does that process look like?
I believe it is up to you to identify what you would like to accomplish when it comes to therapy. When choosing to seek therapy, there is a goal in mind, even if it is - I just want to feel better than I do right now. I strive to break that goal down into smaller, more clearly defined areas, so you can see yourself making progress. It may not feel like a lot at first, but when we step back and look at the big picture and how far you have come, you will be amazed.
Specialties
Relationship Issues
Refers relationship issues with a partner or spouse. Can include issues related to relationship distress, relationship satisfaction, communication, intimacy, etc.
Academic challenges
Concerns that impact school performance or academic life. Can include perfectionism, bullying, financial stress, academic transitions, test anxiety, balancing school with other responsibilities, discrimination, or harassment.
Family issues
Familial relationships can be the source of stress and emotional pain, even in the healthiest of situations. Painful interactions can range from irritation to resentment and lead to feelings of guilt, disappointment, and anger.
Parenting issues
Parenting issues involve those associated with the child-rearing process. These may include safety, discipline, nutrition, finances, childcare, school, household rules, chores, daily routines, social activities, and relationships with extended family members. Because child-rearing practices vary by culture, cultural norms must be considered.
Couples
Provides couples therapy/counseling
General Expertise
Depression
Depression often causes people to feel sad, empty, or hopeless, and can cause a lack of interest in life. It can also affect a person's thinking patterns and physical health.
Anxiety
Anxiety can mean nervousness, worry, or self-doubt. Anxiety disorder is a mental health disorder that entails excessive, repeated bouts of worry, anxiety, and/or fear.
ADHD
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) causes a hard time focusing attention and controlling restless or impulsive behavior. People with ADHD might have emotional outbursts, be forgetful, and/or find it difficult to stay organized.
Autism spectrum disorder
A developmental disability that impacts communication and behavior. Onset typically occurs during early childhood, but an individual may be diagnosed at any point in life. Severity of the disorder varies along a spectrum. Accordingly, challenges associated with verbal and nonverbal communication, interpersonal interactions, and restricted/repetitive behaviors vary as well.
Codependency
Involves a person sacrificing their needs to meet the needs of others. Their thoughts and actions center on a significant other, spouse, friend, or relative. Becomes an issue when relationships are unbalanced and unhealthy.
Fees
$150
First Session
$200
Family Therapy
$175
Couples Therapy
$150
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Family Session
Couples Session
Individual Session
Clientele
Parents
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Family Systems Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy
The Gottman Method
Training / Certifications
The Gottman Method, Level I
Qualified Supervisor, MFT & MHC
Licensure
FL, LMFT, MT3480
Education
Doctor of Philosophy, Counselor Education, University of New Mexico
Master of Science in Education, Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Miami
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Southern Methodist University
Work History
My education and history working in the mental health community is extensive. I received my masters degree in marriage and family therapy from the University of Miami and continued on to my doctorate in counselor education from the University of New Mexico. I am licensed in Florida as a marriage and family therapist. My experience ranges from experience in outpatient addiction centers running groups with adolescents and adults to working for community counseling organizations placed in schools or supporting families through their involvement with the Department of Children and Families. I support families through all struggles of life. Currently my practice focuses on supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate the relational element of life - whether it be the relationship you have with yourself, your partner, or family. My specialties are two fold: couples counseling and parenting. When it comes to my work with couples, I am trained in The Gottman Method, the most effective form of couples counseling to date. When a couple is ready to do the work, the outcomes are rewarding both personally and within the relationship. When it comes to working with parents, I support those navigating stress related to school based behaviors and struggles. Often, parents are unsure of how to navigate the school setting, especially when their child struggles with a learning disability, ADHD, or ASD. My research focuses on supporting children and families through such transitions so children can achieve academically and thrive socially. In addition to practicing, I am also an Associate Professor. Through my work as a professor, I stay up to date on best practices in the counseling field and implement evidence based practices into my work. Therapy is not meant to last forever, and I am here to help you reach your goals in an effective and efficient manner.
Location
4837 Swift Rd, Sarasota, 34231, FL