Seeking counseling services can be an overwhelming time. Asking for help being one of the toughest parts. My role support you, listen to you, and guide you through every step of the process.
I am dedicated to working with adolescents and their families with unique social and emotional needs. My background includes working with teens presenting with a variety of challenges and experiences, including grief and loss, behavioral/academic challenges, anxiety, depression, substance use, self-image and self-esteem issues, parent-child relationship difficulties, and complex trauma histories. With extensive experience working as a school social worker, I have a vast understanding of Individual Education Plans (IEP's) and the importance of close collaboration with teacher, parents, and administration.
My therapeutic style is authentic, warm, and relational, with the aim of fostering safety, trust, and connection with each client and family member. I work collaboratively with families to create a welcoming, safe, and empowering space, which in turn helps foster a deeper understanding of their child's experience and the meaning underneath their behaviors.
I utilize a client-centered approach that incorporates a strengths- based and solution-focused perspective. With an emphasis on skill building, I believe all clients have the ability to learn the skills needed to improve their quality of life. With the appropriate support, I encourage my clients to step out of their comfort zone in learning to cope, manage, heal, and thrive, to be the best versions of themselves.
In 2012, I obtained a Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago with a specialization in School Social Work. I then completed additional training in substance abuse and addiction counseling, and obtained my Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certificate (CADC) in 2019.
I am a strong advocate for self-care and taking time to connect to one's interests and hobbies. With a strong passion for dancing, I danced competitively during my school years and have experience coaching competitive dance teams. Dance is how I practice self-care and connects with what my body needs. The everyday stressors in life can pull people in multiple directions, and as such, it is important to make time for yourself.