About Me

finally, a place where your anxious thoughts can rest

The right therapist-client match is everything. You deserve to feel fully comfortable and supported in our sessions. I’ve shared some information about myself here to help you decide if I’m the right partner for your journey.

my journey

The most important thing to know about me is that I am human first. I know firsthand the weight of trying to stay 'perfect' while struggling in silence. For a long time, I viewed vulnerability as a risk I wasn't willing to take, fearing what people might think if they saw the real me. I lived with that crippling cycle of shame and high-functioning anxiety until I finally reached the point where I couldn't do it anymore. The pain of staying the same outweighed the fear of change.

Because I’ve been there, I hold the space for your courage with deep respect. When you’re ready to say 'Something has to change,' I’m right here waiting for you.

my areas of clinical focus

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Anxiety and Anxiety Related Disorders
Perfectionism
Shame
Authentic & joyful living
Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents
Issues with boundary-setting

my credentials

I received my Master of Social Work from the CSWE-accredited program at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), and I got my start as a therapist working at their University Counseling Center, getting the best clinical training GVSU had to offer. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Michigan. I have training in Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), which is the gold-standard treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). I also have training in Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) for OCD.Additionally, I have training in CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and self-compassion, which are useful for anxiety, shame, perfectionism, and boundary-setting.

my approach
to therapy

The basics:

I am flexible in my approach to therapy and prefer to let you help guide the direction we go in, because you know you best! I put a big focus on the relationship of trust you and I develop, and I work to adapt to each client's needs and preferences. So if you're needing coping skills, I'll teach you. If you want freedom from OCD, I'll use evidence-based treatments like ERP. If you're looking for a space to vent and be heard, it's all yours. It is very important to me that the therapy room feels safe and authentic and is a place where you can get your needs met, whatever those may be.

The specifics:

I utilize an integrative approach that is rooted in humanistic and relational therapy. I believe each person brings a unique story and personal perspective to the therapy room, and my approach recognizes, acknowledges, and affirms your individual humanity.

I do my best to tailor each counseling experience to each client's specific needs, often utilizing ACT and CBT techniques, teaching boundary-setting, and helping clients identify how they want their life to look and what it takes to get there. I often tie in mindfulness skills and self-compassion so clients can get comfortable with their thoughts and feelings without judging them, as I find that judgment gets in the way of progress and growth.

For those with OCD-specific concerns, I utilize Exposure with Response Prevention (ERP), as it is the gold-standard evidence-based treatment, as well as Inference-Based CBT (I-CBT), another evidence-based treatment that was developed specifically for OCD.

my interests

I’m happiest when I’m creating something, spending time at the beach, or exploring new places. Some things I pretty consistently love include thrifting, crafting, decorating my home, reading, & going on walks with my family. You'll often find me crafting during sessions to keep my hands busy while my mind focuses on you, detouring to talk with you about the books you're reading, and encouraging show-and-tell during our sessions.