I’m excited to get to know you better! In the meantime, here’s a little about me, and my professional experience and training. I think one of the biggest challenges, after taking that first brave step of reaching out, is to find a good therapist that you connect with. In my twenty-eight years of experience, the therapeutic relationship is the principal reason that therapy “works” or “doesn’t work.” My approach focuses on first developing a strong therapeutic alliance in which you feel emotionally safe and heard without judgment. You’ve already come to the conclusion that something in your life is not working. My task is to help you to identify the ways in which you’d like things to be different. From there, together we can create realistic, achievable goals that support those changes and move you toward the life that you deserve. I have a large repertoire of strategies and interventions, which include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing. Producing insights, strategies, and tools that you can use immediately is my goal for every interaction with you. I have extensive experience in trauma, anxiety, relationship issues (adult as well as parent-child), substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. I have found that many people experiencing trauma or anxiety are helped by a combination of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. This teaches us how to tolerate our intense feelings and how to reframe unhelpful thought patterns that keep us stuck. Life is challenging and, at times, difficult and painful. Learning how to be “comfortable being uncomfortable” gives us the skill and flexibility to ride these waves (as opposed to feeling like we’re treading water or simply drowning). On a personal note, I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1997. I have worked in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, where I have worked as both therapist and clinical supervisor; university training clinics; private residential treatment facilities; and a successful private practice. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, and with children of all ages. When I’m not helping people, I can be found on the golf course or outdoors, enjoying the beauty of my surroundings. I look forward to working with you and helping you to make the changes you desire.