Therapeutic Approach

I strongly believe that every human being has innate inner strength and leadership. My goal is to help you fully realize your own internal resources. My approach is non-pathologizing and largely influenced by the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. IFS therapy deeply honors all parts of you and provides a framework to safely explore the nuances of complex experiences.

Together, we can embrace the natural multiplicity of the mind and gain insight into the functioning of your internal world. Our work will help you identify your inner parts, uncover their valuable qualities and address harmful patterns of self-protection. This approach is aimed at strengthening your relationship with both yourself and others in your life. Connectedness is a pillar of my therapeutic approach.   

The natural multiplicity of the mind is a GOOD THING and a recurring theme in psychological theory. Humans are beautifully complex and I believe this is actually a strength of ours. To me, psychological well-being is the product of becoming integrated and whole. I welcome all of your parts and create space for all of your experiences. By acknowledging my own full humanity (mistakes and all), I strive to create the space for you to do the same. Missteps are an important, even if uncomfortable, part of growth. Come as you are, always.

Specializations & Interests 

My first job in the field was at a domestic violence shelter. I continue to feel deeply connected to the work of empowering trauma survivors and helping them find healing. I have the most experience treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, disordered eating, addictions and trauma. Areas of interest include neurodiversity, gender identity, sexuality, ethical non-monogamy, sex work, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, post-traumatic growth, and establishing work/life balance.

As a white therapist, I am committed to social justice and the ongoing work of being anti-racist and anti-oppressive. I recognize the need to go beyond acknowledgement of power and privilege. I strive to engage in cultural humility, to remain compassionate and curious, and to not assume shared values. I am committed to witnessing myself and challenging perfectionism.  

Biography

I grew up near Cleveland, OH and was a competitive gymnast for 12 years. Gymnastics taught me how to get out of my head and into my body, a skill that I continue to work on and try to bring into the therapy space. I went to Bowling Green State University for my undergrad and was one of the first students to claim a minor in Sexuality Studies. Before grad school, I was a member of the support staff at a domestic violence shelter for over two years. I also facilitated group therapy at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center and advocated for clients in the city’s drug court program. I made the big move to Chicago for grad school and completed my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Roosevelt University. I interned at The Awakening Center, an outpatient eating disorder clinic in Lakeview. Then, I made the full jump into private practice. I have been in private practice since 2018 and started a support group for burned out helping professionals in 2022.

Outside of being a therapist, I love to cook and try new Chicago restaurants. My partner and I have been keeping a running list of all the places we’ve been to!