My approach:

My approach feels authentic and holistic because I am genuinely interested in my clients, and always want them to feel comfortable and free from judgment. I use the polyvagal theory to incorporate the mind-body connection, creating deeper, lasting, embodied changes. I work from an attachment-based, trauma-informed* lens and use techniques from a variety of modalities**. Sessions look like supportive, relational conversations, and therapy is a collaborative, transparent process.

My clients:

Virtual sessions through telehealth allow me to connect with clients from all walks of life, all genders and sexual orientations, all races, all religious identities, and other identities who are seeking support- with the telehealth regulation that the client must be physically located in Ohio during the session.

I encourage clients to bring as much of their genuine selves as they want to the session, including their creativity, religion, spirituality, or other healing resources, and encourage clients to set boundaries around how much they want to share with me at any given time. I work with adolescents and adults through individual counseling and will be opening up group counseling options in the future.

My specialties & experience:

I specialize in Complex-PTSD as well as other trauma, attachment/relationship concerns, and disordered eating.

I also have experience working with ADHD, adjustment to life transitions, body dysmorphia, codependency, depression, domestic violence, emotional abuse, family dynamics, gender identity, intrusive thoughts, self-esteem, sexual abuse, sex and intimacy, sexuality, and stress.

More background:

I am licensed in the state of Ohio as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and I received both my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and my Bachelor’s in Psychology from The Ohio State University. I have volunteered with survivors of sexual assault and currently volunteer for Mental Health of America. I have completed the Community Resiliency Model training from the Trauma Resource Institute which is focused on promoting post-traumatic growth in the aftermath of collective traumatic events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. I am currently completing the three-year Somatic Experiencing training. Additionally, I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Ohio Counseling Association, Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association, and the United States Association for Body Psychotherapy.

What does it mean to be a trauma-informed therapist?

Trauma occurs when the nervous system does not have enough time or space to process stimuli; when there is a loss of control. To me, being a trauma-informed therapist means giving back the element of control that was taken during the traumatic situation. This means they decide what they share with me, when they share it, and how much of it they want to share. This means I use invitational language and ask permission before broaching difficult topics, and clients are in charge of the pace and depth of our work together. Each client is the expert in what feels safe for them, and I encourage and honor clients’ assertion of boundaries. I believe that being trauma-informed means being receptive to feedback and adjusting your approach to the client’s preferences. I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, and I am very passionate about continuously learning more about new research, ways to support trauma survivors, and how trauma changes the nervous system.

**Other modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, internal family systems, positive psychology, mindfulness, strengths-based approach and play therapy.