Each of us holds a distinct story that shapes how we land in the present moment. Within our narratives lie elements of joy, connection, and emotional fulfillment. Conversely, certain aspects of our stories can evoke feelings of deep shame, isolation, sadness, and fear. Listening to my clients’ stories, I attune to the diverse, intersecting identities that shape their world experiences. My therapeutic approach is designed to assist clients in exploring both their past and present experiences, helping them align their minds and bodies, enhance their relationships, and empower them to live authentically here and now.
I adopt a holistic and relational framework, founded on the principle that healing involves reconnecting the mind and body. I recognize how trauma can influence our nervous systems and affect our relationships with ourselves and others. During sessions, I gently encourage clients to practice embodiment through cultivating present-moment awareness and curiosity about their internal experiences. When appropriate, I value the use of humor as a healing tool, recognizing its cathartic power. My practice incorporates evidence-based modalities, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Somatic therapies. I prioritize a client-centered and collaborative style, believing that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for personal growth and transformation.
My experience spans working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families on issues including complex trauma/PTSD, grief, ADHD, body image concerns, substance use, shame, reproductive identity, and relationship challenges. I have a strong interest in perinatal and reproductive mental health, addressing concerns related to the menstrual cycle, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), perimenopause, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), infertility, pregnancy loss, and other matters related to family planning. My approach is anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA+ affirming, mindful of the widespread systemic injustices many communities encounter. Additionally, I am sex-positive and kink/BDSM-friendly.
I hold bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from Loyola University Chicago, with a focus on advanced clinical practice. My experience involves offering psychotherapy in various outpatient environments such as private practice and community mental health. Additionally, I have led group therapy for postpartum women.
My objective is to meet clients where they’re at. I understand that therapy is deeply personal and the course of treatment varies significantly from one individual to another. My work as a therapist is immensely meaningful to me; it is a privilege to witness clients embark toward healing, discover their strengths, and connect to their values to lead fulfilling lives.
- IL LSW License Number: Pending
- Supervised by: Talia Cohen, MA, LCSW, PMH-C
- Type 1 NPI Number: Pending
- Accepts: BCBS PPO and BlueChoice plans, self-pay and out of network clients
Selected Training & Affiliation
- Member of Postpartum Support International
- Member of International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD) for community professionals
- NeuroAffective Relational Model™ (NARM), advanced clinical training in progress
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Assessing and Treating Patients with PMDD
- Grief and Bereavement Counseling
- Bowen Family Systems Therapy
- Internal Family Systems
- Integrating Polyvagal Theory into Clinical Practice
- Psychodynamic Therapy
Key Beliefs
- We are born deserving to pursue what fulfills us. We don’t need to justify our worthiness to experience comfort, pleasure, or joy.
- Trauma interferes with secure relationships. Secure relationships heal trauma.
- Humans are multidimensional. Within each of us are numerous parts that are continuously growing and changing.
- If trauma can be passed down through generations, so can healing.
More About Me
- My favorite ways to self-regulate are through yoga, breathwork, and spending time in nature. Some things I love include fancy dinners, my pets Carol (dog) and Ed (cat), and breezy afternoons in a hammock with a good book. I often find myself daydreaming about starting a flower farm and the perfect nap (perhaps in a hammock on a breezy afternoon).
