Therapy Session in Illinois

I am an authentic and empathetic mental health therapist who believes strongly in the practice of empowering others through a means of heightened personal awareness and development of a sense of capacity. I believe it’s important to focus on helping others to understand their personal patterned behavior in a safe and open minded environment. I graduated with my Masters from Eastern Illinois University in 1995 and obtained my LCPC in 1998 and I’ve been practicing in the field ever since. I have a strong passion for helping others learn how to experience self-compassion and develop coping strategies that will aid them in working towards the things that are most important to them and align with their values.

I’m a warm, non-judgmental therapist who truly values building real human connections with my clients. I bring empathy, a gentle presence, and even a bit of humor into the room, creating a safe and comfortable space where people feel seen and heard. I genuinely care for my clients not just as patients, but as people. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults, and I’m also experienced in supporting adults. I help clients navigate depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, self-injury, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, behavioral concerns, and family conflict. My therapeutic foundation is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I draw from a variety of approaches to meet each client’s unique needs. I emphasize trust, authenticity, and helping clients connect with their values to guide meaningful change. My goal is to support each person in feeling safe enough to explore what’s going on inside and around them, and empowered enough to move toward the life they want. Therapy with me is about finding your footing again—and feeling like yourself.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and doctoral intern in clinical psychology, with a focus on supporting children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and identity development, including exploration of culture, values, gender, and sense of self. I help young people make sense of their experiences and understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are shaped by what they have been through. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and empowering, grounded in evidence-based practices like CBT and always tailored to each individual’s needs. I believe that healing begins with feeling seen, and I work collaboratively with clients to build insight, strengthen coping strategies, and grow with confidence into who they are becoming.

For more than thirty years, my life’s work has helped clients achieve freedom—both on their favorite "stage" and in their lives. My practical, action-oriented approach to therapy is a unique balance of gentleness and challenge. I specialize in building resilience, guiding clients to face their fears, overcoming limiting beliefs, processing grief, and taking charge of their lives. My work integrates the essential task of addressing unresolved “stuff” from the past with the development of skills to create a vibrant and fulfilling future. I deeply value the power of meaningful relationships. I love coaching parents and partners committed to bettering themselves, to better their relationships. I believe the relationship we cultivate with ourselves deserves equal care and compassion. Together, we’ll uncover your “best self” and bring it forward to navigate the challenges of today’s world. It would be my privilege to be your healing partner on your adventure today.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring warmth, understanding, and over a decade of experience supporting adolescents and young adults navigating life's challenges. My practice centers on empathy and respect—meeting each client exactly where they are. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, including those with ADHD, autism spectrum differences, and other learning or cognitive profiles. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative, helping clients recognize their unique abilities while addressing behavioral and emotional health concerns. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, school issues, mood instability, or social difficulties, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s going on and to build practical skills for growth. My interventions are tailored to each individual and family, using evidence-based strategies grounded in compassion. I understand how complex adolescence can be—for both teens and caregivers—and I'm here to support the process with insight, patience, and care.