Hi! Welcome. You might be searching for therapists and by fate have landed here. Congrats! Taking the first few steps to seeking mental health care can be daunting and yet, you're here. That takes courage and I'm so glad you have arrived.
Professionally:
I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (IMH#24334) and Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (IMF#3936) which are fancy terms for I am in the process of achieving full counseling licensure in the State of Florida and am required to practice under a licensed qualified supervisor (I'm so lucky because mine is super amazing!). I have a Masters Degree in Liberal Studies, and most recently, a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, both from Rollins College (GO TARS!). I am passionate about the importance of connection and relationships and achieved a specialized certificate in Family and Relationship Counseling.
My style of therapy involves being adaptable, in the moment, and individualized for a client's unique needs. After all, I believe you are the expert of your own life. My role is to listen, help you organize your thoughts, make connections, and empower you to share and unload your burdens. At the core, I use an Attachment Theory framework to conceptualize struggles, disappointments, and ongoing dilemmas. Essentially, that means, I believe all humans have the right to love and be loved no matter what their identity, experience, and cultural background, and it's that need to connect with others that drives our actions and/or inactions. In a session with me, together, we will bring awareness and attempt acceptance of difficult circumstances, identify coping skills/strategies that may help regulate any overwhelming/or lack of feelings and emotions, and identify personal goals so that you can achieve optimal wellness. My guess is that there may be laughter and tears as we journey the unknown, and maybe some directness. I equally enjoy humor and discomfort. In fact, I often find they go hand and hand.
Personally:
Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I enjoy everything outdoors (minus the summer months when the heat is unbearable and hugging air conditioning vents is necessary for survival). I love traveling, seeing the world and have adventured to over 11 countries. During my free time, you can catch me at a theme park or beach, doing 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles, binging reality TV, or sneaking in a crossword puzzle on my phone. Identities that are important to me are being a partner, a mother to a 5-year-old (and two pups), a daughter, a sister, a friend, and advocate for others.