What made you passionate about specializing in mental health for women and girls?
"I feel a deep sense of connection and community with other women by virtue of our shared experiences. Even though I work with women from all walks of life, who have experiences that differ from mine, there are certain things about which we have a shared understanding—something we don’t even need to speak to know it’s there. I’ve witnessed firsthand the amazing things women are capable of when we support and uplift each other, and I wanted my life’s work to reflect that."

What originally drew you to becoming a therapist?  

"This has always been one of my "fun facts" because of how far back my desire to be a therapist goes. I actually decided to become a therapist as a high school freshman - it all began in my art class with my childhood best friend. We both shared a love for art and decided to take this class together, and little did I know that our love for art was not the only thing that deepened. During this period this friend opened up to me about her upbringing, her struggle with her mental health and her home life. What I heard broke my heart and expanded it at the same time. I knew at 14 it was not common or recommended for me to hold space for something so intense, but what shocked both my guidance counselor and I was that the impact was nothing but positive. Having someone trust me with the most vulnerable parts of themself made me feel honored and fulfilled, not drained.”

How do you work to create a space where clients feel truly seen and safe?

“I aim to create a space where clients can bring their full selves, including the parts that feel clear and the parts that you don’t yet understand. I do this by listening without judgment, honoring boundaries, and moving at a pace that feels right for each person. Safety, to me, is built through trust, openness, and ongoing collaboration.”

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as being about cleanliness or liking things labeled and arranged a certain way. In reality, OCD is defined by:

• Obsessions: intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges

• Compulsions: repetitive behaviors or mental acts (rituals) done to reduce anxiety caused by those thoughts

OCD has some common themes (harm, moral scrupulosity, contamination, sexual, false memory, just right, etc.), but it isn’t really about germs, morality, or safety. At its core, it’s about an intense intolerance of uncertainty.

For any couples that might be feeling hesitant, skeptical, or nervous about the idea of seeking couples therapy, what would you say?

"I have heard time and time again, individuals and couples say they cannot tell any of their friends or family the full truth about what happens within their romantic relationships. They do not want to paint their partner in a negative light or are unsure if it is even a situation worth discussing; couples therapy can be that safe place to work through these private and precious thoughts and feelings. What better place to go than a confidential space with a third party that will not take sides, will listen openly, and won't judge either partner for behaviors or emotions that others may not hold compassionately.

What originally drew you to becoming a therapist?

“I have always had an interest and passion for connecting with others. I am drawn to understanding people on a deeper level, and helping others feel fully seen and accepted. As a teen, I had a very rewarding personal experience in therapy that sparked my interest in becoming a therapist. I realized that I was most fulfilled when working directly with others and decided to pursue a career in clinical social work.”