As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern (LCDC-I), I specialize in Catholic-based counseling, with a focus on serving the young adult population. My approach is deeply rooted in the Catholic understanding of the human person, recognizing each individual’s inherent dignity and value. I aim to provide a compassionate space where clients can explore their emotions, process experiences, and grow spiritually.
While traditional counseling is highly effective for many people, it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. That’s where a more creative approach can make a difference. My use of expressive art therapy allows clients to engage creatively in their healing process — no need to be a professional artist! Whether you enjoy painting, drawing, clay sculpting, or other crafts, this approach offers an alternative and effective path for self-exploration, self-expression, and personal growth.
Navigating stress and trauma can feel overwhelming, but healing is possible. As an EMDR in-training practitioner, I’m here to guide you through a proven, compassionate approach that helps untangle the past and create space for a brighter future. Whether you’re feeling stuck, weighed down, or just ready for healing, I’m here to walk alongside you with care and support every step of the way.
Psychotherapy is a safe space where we work together to understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s about helping you learn new skills, gain insights, make positive changes, and build a more fulfilling life, whether that means managing stress, healing from past experiences, or achieving personal growth.
Think of therapy as a therapeutic alliance. You bring your experiences and goals, and I bring tools and techniques to help you. Your role is to be honest and open, as much as you’re comfortable. It’s okay if you’re not sure where to start. My role is not to tell you what to do but to help you discover your own answers and build skills to navigate life’s challenges.
Each session is like a guided conversation. Talking is a big part of therapy, but it’s not just talking. It’s a focused, intentional kind of conversation. You share what’s on your mind, and I listen carefully and ask questions to help you understand your experiences better. We might work on strategies to manage challenges or explore patterns in your thinking and behavior.
Sometimes, we’ll use specific tools, like relaxation techniques or journaling. If it’s helpful, I might suggest activities or ‘homework’ to try between sessions, so you can continue to grow outside of our time together. Depending on your needs and preferences, we can incorporate other approaches that might feel more engaging or effective for you. These include techniques like expressive arts, Gestalt therapy, or EMDR.
Therapy isn’t about finding instant solutions; it’s about creating meaningful and lasting changes over time. Some sessions might feel productive, and others may feel like we’re just scratching the surface, and that’s completely normal.
You don’t have to have it all figured out. We’ll go at your pace, and you can always share your thoughts about how things are going. This process is about YOU.
The frequency of therapy depends on your needs:
I will work with you to create a schedule that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Therapy doesn’t always feel like a straight path. Celebrate small victories, and trust the process!
Seeking therapy isn’t about being ‘broken’. It’s about recognizing that everyone can benefit from support and self-improvement. You don’t have to have a ‘serious’ problem to come to therapy. It’s a space for anyone who wants to grow, heal, or just understand themselves better.
Here are some common signs that therapy might be beneficial:
Psychotherapy itself does not involve prescribing medication. It focuses on helping you explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to promote healing and growth. However, therapists often work with psychiatrists or medical professionals when medication might be helpful. For example, medication may help you manage severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges a bit easier.
We can discuss whether medication could complement your therapy. The decision is always yours, and therapy alone can often bring significant improvement without medication.
While psychotherapy can’t promise 100% recovery, it equips you with tools, insights, and support to move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. It is highly effective for many people. Research shows that:
However, recovery looks different for everyone. Your healing journey depends on factors like your readiness, commitment, and the complexity of the issues you’re addressing. It’s about progress, not perfection.
(1) Lambert, M. J. (2013). Bergin and Garfield’s Handbook of Psychotherapy and Behavior Change.
(2) Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Third Edition: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures.
Therapy is more than just an hour of talking. Think of therapy as building a foundation for lifelong mental health. It isn’t about me giving you advice or telling you what’s ‘right’ or ‘wrong.’ It’s about helping you find what’s best for you.
While we’ll build a close therapeutic relationship, therapy is different from talking to a friend. It’s a professional process where you’ll have a safe, confidential, and judgment-free space to work through things.
While the financial investment can feel significant, many people find that the emotional and mental benefits are priceless.
The Catholic faith offers a wealth of resources and practices that can contribute to a healthier mind and spirit.
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