The most rewarding thing about being a therapist is creating a relationship with my clients where they feel safe and empowered to be themselves. Helping someone accept who they are is a great catalyst for change. As a high school counselor for the last 19 years, I have learned that change is a pivotal part of life and one of the most common reasons someone seeks the help of a therapist in the first place.
Establishing supportive and positive relationships is at the core of my professional ethos. As a high school counselor, I strive to consistently build strong connections with students, their families, and various professionals in the medical and educational sectors. My collaborative approach to therapy ensures that all stakeholders are actively engaged in the therapeutic process, fostering an environment conducive to positive change outcomes. I fiercely advocate for school-aged children to access reasonable accommodations through Section 504 and IDEA. Yet, change is hard! I have spent my career learning different therapeutic skills so that I can work with diverse mental health concerns across the lifespan with a strong emphasis on locus of control and change. I use a variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy strategies, play, and talk during sessions in order to help clients accept themselves and identify empowering ways to advocate for their wellness. I use a neurodiversity-affirming approach to therapy so that all clients understand that they are accepted for who they are as we work together to accomplish their goals.
SPECIALIZATION AREAS:
Children and Adolescents (ages 6-18)
Adult (18+)
ADHD
Anxiety
Anger management
Autism
Depression
Educational Issues: Section 504 Plans, IEPs, etc.
Gifted and High-Ability Individuals
Grief
LGBTQIA+2S
OCD
Parent Education
Social Skills
Self -Esteem
CERTIFICATION/LICENSE:
Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Missouri