Embracing Change
Marriage and Family Therapy
Therapy can be a place for self-exploration and a greater depth of understanding, an avenue to enhance social connections, and a way to set goals and chart a path to achieve them. I value lifelong learning and the power of human connection, and as such, the goal of enhancing self-awareness, and desire to learn, grow, and evolve deeply resonates with me. I also value approaching people from a place of curiosity, empathetic understanding, and the power of validation, all which are important components of the therapeutic relationship and setting.
I work with clients to address any obstacles they may be facing, assist them in setting goals, and in helping them to enact a plan to achieve their desired outcomes. This partnership is different from person to person, because it’s about identifying any stumbling blocks clients may be facing and working through them.
My goal is to create a warm and open atmosphere, where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches to help people reach their full potential.
I have a background in educational psychology, with a focus on learning and development, and use that lens to help clients understand their cognitions and behaviors, as well as ways to cultivate habits that will lead to growth and fulfillment. I am also well versed in dealing with transition and work-related issues, and can help people identify their inner strengths, and adapt and thrive in their environments.
Additionally, I have an extensive background in relationship science and a degree in marriage and family therapy. I partner with individuals to help them recognize fulfilling relationships (romantic or platonic) that enable personal growth and enhance their overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with them to determine the steps they may take to find and foster these connections. I also support those in existing relationships by helping them improve upon their skills and ability to create long-lasting, and loving bonds.
Overall, I help my clients become more self-aware, create a deeper understanding of what they are looking for, as well as assist them in visualizing and generating a plan to achieve their goals.
My clinical focus centers on, but is not limited to, relationships, anxiety, stress, boundary setting, work/life balance, and adjusting to life transitions. I am a certified Prepare Enrich facilitator, a program that equips couples and families with evidence-based skills and insights to foster healthy relationships. I have completed Level 1 and Level 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Externship. I have also taken courses in the practice of mindful awareness and incorporate various exercises into my work.
I also run several psychoeducational and process groups as part of my therapeutic practice. In the relationship realm, I have facilitated dating groups for those looking to better understand what they want from their partnerships, as well as communication groups for couples. I have also run grief and loss groups and divorce groups. In the broader scope of mental health and well-being, I have led several mindfulness and meditation groups, as well as an improv for self-care group, connecting the art of improv and the related psychological science to fun, interactive, and enriching games.
Strengthening self and enhancing relationships through awareness and exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Therapeutic Background and Approach FAQs
1. What was your path to becoming a therapist?
I am passionate about assisting others to set goals, realize their dreams, and tackle any stumbling blocks they may face and as such, always knew that I wanted to be in a helping profession.
My background is a bit non-traditional in that my first career was in academia (tenured psychology professor). Working with, and advising students was the highlight of that role. Additionally, I am a relationship scientist and have done a great deal of research on relationships and the human connection. For many years, I have been giving workshops, presentations, and interactive lectures about how people can apply relationship science to their everyday lives and cover topics such as dating, communication, intimacy, and fostering and strengthening our attachment bonds. This work strengthened my desire to pursue a clinical specialty in marriage and family therapy.
2. What should someone know about working with you?
I take a collaborative, solution-focused approach to create a warm and open atmosphere, where clients feel comfortable sharing their stories and lived experiences. I also use psychoeducation and various evidence-based interventions to help my clients reach their full potential. We will work together at a pace that feels comfortable and embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth.
3. What do you do to continue learning and building competencies as a provider?
It is so important to stay up to date on the research from the field as well as new therapeutic interventions and approaches. As a relationship scientist, and coming from an academic background, I am passionate about drawing on a variety of disciplines to provide my clients with psychoeducation and evidence-based treatments. I am both an active participant in continuing education courses and workshops, as well as present my own lectures and host educational events.
4. How do your own core values shape your approach to therapy?
Therapy can be a place for self-exploration and a greater depth of understanding, an avenue to enhance social connections, and a way to set goals and chart a path to achieve them. I value lifelong learning and the power of human connection, and as such, the goal of enhancing self-awareness, and desire to learn, grow, and evolve deeply resonates with me.
I also value approaching people from a place of curiosity, empathetic understanding, and the power of validation, all which are important components of the therapeutic relationship and setting.
5. If there was one thing you wish people who might be hesitant knew about the therapy experience, what would that be?
Therapy can be a wonderful place for discovery-of yourself, your relationships, and your goals, wishes, and dreams. This exploration can lead to a greater sense of self-awareness and personal growth. Therapy can be beneficial at any time and provides you with a warm and caring atmosphere where you feel safe to explore and share your thoughts and emotions.
When working with a client, I make sure to always check in and work at a pace that feels comfortable. I also invite open dialogue about the goals of therapy, the modalities used, and the process so that it is a truly collaborative experience.