Special Interests
Approach
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Gottman method couples therapy, Harm reduction, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), Motivational interviewing (MI), Psychodynamic, Solution-focused, Strengths-based
Therapy Style
I have over 20 years experience as a Clinical Social Worker and believe that every person has unique strengths and abilities. I am an ally and advocate of the LGBTQI community. I utilize an eclectic style designed with each client in mind.
I believe in compassionate and empathic therapy without judgment. I help my clients with their struggles and work with them to thrive rather than just survive. The therapist-client bond is sacred and the mainstay of my profession.
Education
MSW - Social Work, Brown School of Social Work, Washington University
License Number and State
FL 19290
Pronouns
she/her
Why did you become a mental health professional?
When I was about 16, I struggled with family issues and saw a therapist. He helped me deal with my problems and move on. His empathy, compassion, and wisdom were remarkable. I realized then that I'd like to be a therapist and help others as he had helped me.
What are your interests outside of work?
I love to read, knit and spend time with family and friends. Travelings is also something I enjoy, especially visiting new places and seeing different cultures
What book have you read more than once?
I have read Possession by A.S. Byatt two times. I have also listened to the audiobook and watched the movie. The narrative is about two young English researchers who find out about a clandestine affair between two Victorian poets. The characterizations and poetic quality of the writing really drew me in.
Favorite organization/non-profit?
NAMI (The National Organization for the Mentally Ill) is my favorite non-profit. NAMI provides support for the mentally ill and their families, conducts research on mental illness and helps communities develop support groups. I have served on my local board and conducted support group meetings.
Do you have any pets?
I have two rescue dogs and a Senegal parrot. Gucci is 12 1/2 years old and I adopted him when he was 10. Shaffer is 8 years old and we've had him since he was 9 months old. Petra, my parrot, is close to 40 years old and we've been told that she's the longest living Senegal parrot in captivity. My favorite story is about how Gucci and Shaffer became friends. Shaffer was used to being an only dog and when we got Gucci he was not happy. Gucci tried to bully Shaffer and I loved watching the evolution of their relationship. Over time, Gucci stopped bullying, Shaffer held his ground, and the two became buddies, even sharing their same dog beds at times.
