Approach
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused, Strengths-based
Therapy Style
My approach to therapy integrates interventions from various theoretical frameworks like Gestalt Theory, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Feminist Theory. I rely on my personal history to cultivate a safe, genuine, healing space for those on a wellness journey. I am a Black, Queer, Cis-gender counselor. Therefore, I utilize my intersectional identities to assist individuals and couples in skill-building to manage anxiety, interpersonal concerns, transitions, adjustments, and striving for self-actualization.
Education
BA - Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
MA – Clinical Mental Health, Trinity Washington University
License Number and State
Pronouns
she/her
Why did you become a mental health professional?
Dancing was my escape from my adverse childhood experiences and adverse community environments, and upon graduating from college at UNC-Greensboro, I became a professional dancer in the DMV (DC, MD, VA). Movement, breath, and how toxic stress lives in the body were always within my awareness. Therefore, transitioning from dance to clinical mental health was a natural progression built on skills I'd already cultivated.
What are your interests outside of work?
Outside work, I enjoy relaxing with my family, traveling, trying new foods, and dancing!
What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?
Snuggling with my dog Mango is a daily support activity for my mental and emotional well-being. I also enjoy writing letters to people, even if I never share the letter. It helps me untangle and understand my emotions.
What book have you read more than once?
The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah. It was a coming-of-age story unlike any other I had access to, that allowed me to read in a familiar voice.
Favorite organization/non-profit?
DC's Playtime Project is an incredible organization that promotes childhood and encourages playtime. For children in DC and surrounding cities with families experiencing homelessness, play is not always the priority despite play being significant for cognitive, social, and emotional development.
How do you recharge?
To recharge, I typically make an extensive to-do list as a "brain dump" and then relax with family, friends, or my pup. Sometimes I turn on smooth jazz or other music, and dance.
Do you have any pets?
I have a shih-tzu named Mango. She is a funny pup and you may see that in small moments during sessions!
