Selecting a therapist is a crucial decision and you or someone you know may not be where to begin. Understandably, you want to get a sense of who I am as a person and a professional. I earned my MSW and BSW from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. My graduate studies were research-based, experiential, and integrated with a social policy lens. Mentorship shaped my understanding of relationships, service, and leadership. Transformational leadership felt organic, and I have wanted to help others ever since. The values that guide my practice and guide my approach to life and wellness are:

1) Treat each person with dignity and respect, mindful of natural differences
2) Focus on the future, always looking ahead, thinking about what needs to be done, a focus on change, and most importantly a focus on people
3) Never underestimate EXPERIENCE and EXPOSURE

My sense of wonder was sparked at an early age by being encouraged to ask questions. I am the youngest sibling and granddaughter, so it is safe to say I came into a well-established system. My language skills developed early because there were multiple people always talking, reading, and singing. As a clinician, I take a non-judgmental stance and my approach tends to incorporate thoughtful learning. 21st century learning skills are often called the 4 C's: critical thinking, creative thinking, communicating, and collaborating. These skills help us learn, and so they are vital to success in school and beyond. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, humanistic therapy, and mindfulness techniques. I take a family systems approach to service delivery partly due to my background in child welfare and education. I have worked in community-based mental health clinics, social service agencies, and have also supervised graduate students during their first- and second-year field practicums. I look forward to connecting!