My work as a psychotherapist at Wildflower consists of assisting individuals and couples in their life journeys. More than anything else, growth and success in therapy are dependent on the therapeutic relationship that clients and therapists nurture together. By building a safe and secure environment that is mutually trusting and reassuring, people are able to think and feel more deeply about their realities, their experiences, their goals, and the challenges they seek to overcome.
I am first and foremost a Client Centered Therapist in the tradition of Carl Rogers and Barbara Temaner Brodley and I maintain an existential humanistic approach in my work. I come to each therapy session grounded in the belief that all people are inherently on a path leading to self- discovery and self-knowledge. In addition to this orientation, I rely on Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy to inform a holistic approach for my clients. I am currently working toward Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, an empirically-based approach to improving couples’ relationships.
My first careers were music and cooking. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Classical Music Performance from Ithaca College and went on to perform music as well as work in every aspect of restaurants. I eventually evolved to become a professor of culinary arts at a vocational school and work as a research chef. More recently I completed an Educational Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Loyola University Chicago. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community. I am honored to work with clients who are exploring gender identity, sexual orientation, and non-heteronormative relationships. Additionally, I enjoy working with older adults and have been privileged to help process the feelings of grief and loss involving loved ones, friends, and pets across a broad range of clients.
Key Beliefs
- One of the greatest demonstrations of personal strength is the ability to seek out and ask for help, to let down your guard and be vulnerable to another.
- Therapy is for any person who desires to know themself, love themself, and help themself.
More About Me
- I chose a different path midway through my life and have surprised myself with the joy it has brought, and I have benefited from adapting my past careers into pursuits that continue to enrich me, my family, and friends.
- Solo running and yoga are the ways in which I add mindfulness to my daily life.
- I will be forever grateful to Marcella Hazan, Gustav Mahler, and Joan Erikson.
