Special Interests
ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Couples Therapy, Depression, Family Conflict, Family Therapy, Grief, Interpersonal / Domestic Violence, LGBTQ+, Life Transitions, OCD, Panic, Personality Disorders, Phobias, Pregnancy / Peripartum, Self-harm, Sexual Trauma, Sleep, Stress, Trauma, Women's Issues
Approach
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP or EXRP), Harm reduction, Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), Motivational interviewing (MI), Psychodynamic, Relational, Solution-focused, Strengths-based
Therapy Style
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and the therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, I will use one of several therapeutic modalities depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strengths Based Therapy and Psychotherapy. An integrated approach can be utilized as well. I use a client focused approach to therapy. My approach is that we are two detectives looking into your thoughts, beliefs, motivations, behaviors and feelings, and you are the lead detective and I am your helper!
I am known for being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and energetic. I have a great sense of humor and help you to use humor as a coping mechanism. Not only do I have the necessary credentials, experience, and hours to be licensed, but I also have a lifetime of experience and wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! My passion and purpose is psychotherapy and I am honored to work with you to help you achieve your life goals.
Education
MSW - Social Work, University of Maryland Baltimore
License Number and State
DC 50081058
Pronouns
she/her
Why did you become a mental health professional?
I'm fascinated by psychology and sociology and the study of the human brain. I care for people and want to help them lead the kind of life they envision for themselves or to help them get to know themselves better.
What are your interests outside of work?
I love reading, gardening and socializing. I love to cook and create my own recipes. I love travel to different places on this fascinating earth. I love seeing how other cultures live.
What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?
Good sleep and drinking lots of water. I make sure I get out in nature. I have down time and read something inspirational. I meditate. Sometimes I will watch a comedy on Netflix to get me laughing which is my best coping skill.
What book have you read more than once?
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. It's a masterpiece in irony.
Favorite organization/non-profit?
Planned Parenthood because it supports my value of freedom of choice and it serves the community.
How do you recharge?
I play with my granddaughters. I laugh with them, watch them play and join in at times. All my troubles vanish. I live in a court with my nieces who have children and I enjoy looking out my kitchen window and watching those kids play.
