The impact of mental health in my community became very apparent to me at a young age, the study of psychology opened my eyes to the extent of that impact. In my pursuit of higher education, I searched the various fields within psychology and found myself most comfortable when allowed to build a safe conversational space for people over a period of time, shaping my approach to be tailored to each person as an individual.

Being able to witness and contribute to each client building their own environment within which they feel not only able but eager to express themselves.

The first session can bring up a mix of emotions for both the client and therapist. My hope for the session is to provide my clients with a sense of ease in the space we share as well as do my best to provide a roadmap for the coming sessions.

“Ask as many questions as you can/would like to.” Has always been my first response when someone reaches out to me.

I hope to build a relationship of openness. For my clients to be able to share not only the concerns they are dealing with but also their personhood. I strive to create a collaborative, gentle and accepting relationship where they can feel seen and heard in ways they would like.

I admire each client’s resilience and strength as I know first hand how hard it can be to ask for help. With every session, I’m more amazed at the fortitude my clients display in the face of adversity.

The curiosity with which I approach my sessions allows me to grow with my clients, Ensuring the environment stays casual and comfortable with a (bad) joke here and there.

Read, play with my cats, find new music with the goal to share.

I hold the belief that the client is an expert on their life when provided a safe, judgment-free environment. I use an eclectic approach, which means that different therapy orientations and schools of thought guide my work. While our sessions can look different based on the needs of the moment, I hold a Person-centered theoretical approach, where each person has the ability and resources to help themself with the support of a therapist. I also use an insight-oriented lens. Exploring how events, relationships, and interactions of the past inform our present experiences.

From my early experiences in the field of psychology I had the opportunity to work with queer affirmative mentors and organizations. My learnings from these experiences informs my work today. Language holds power; it plays a significant role in how we see ourselves. I ensure using queer affirmative language and introduce myself with my pronouns. I am mindful of not assuming any client’s identity instead rely on my client’s informing me.