About me
I am a licensed social worker with a broad range of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. After growing up in Glencoe, Illinois, I earned a BA in Psychology from Pitzer College in California and later obtained my MSW from Loyola University Chicago. I began my career working with adolescents in Chicago Public Schools, where I supported students with learning and behavioral disabilities.
Over the years, my practice has expanded to include individual therapy for clients of all ages, as well as work with couples and older adults navigating midlife transitions. I have extensive experience in both inpatient settings and private practice, where I provide psychotherapy to help clients address mental health challenges and personal growth.
I specialize in an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. This approach allows me to tailor my treatment to the unique needs of each client. My goal is to empower individuals to understand their challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and work towards achieving a healthier, more balanced life.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by altering negative thoughts, we can change our emotional responses and behaviors.
Psychodynamic Therapy
This therapy is rooted in psychoanalytic theory and emphasizes understanding the influence of the unconscious mind on behavior. It explores past experiences, unresolved conflicts, and the impact of childhood on current behavior to gain insight and resolve emotional difficulties.
Acceptance Commitment Therapy
ACT is a form of therapy that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty about them. It emphasizes commitment to personal values and taking action that aligns with those values, even in the presence of difficult emotions.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Originally developed for treating borderline personality disorder, DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. It focuses on teaching skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Attachment Based Therapy
This therapy focuses on the importance of early attachment experiences and their impact on relationships and emotional well-being. It aims to help individuals understand and improve their attachment patterns to foster healthier relationships.
Humanistic Therapy
Humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization. It is centered on the belief that individuals have the capacity for self-awareness and choice. Therapists provide a supportive environment to help clients explore their feelings and develop a stronger sense of self.
