Hello! My name is Tonya and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Originally from Chicago, I earned my MA from University of Chicago in 1998, and since then I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings including domestic violence shelters, a foster care/adoption agency, and a parenting organization as well as managing a private practice where I currently reside in North Carolina. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, life changes, trauma and parenting and relationship challenges. My approach to therapy is client-centered: clients are the experts on their lives and determine the direction and depth of therapy. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy cycling, swimming, reading, knitting, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends.