Congratulations on making the choice to take the first step towards a happier and healthier new “you”! Taking this step takes inner courage and the desire to experience change.  I believe that everyone can benefit from talking to a trained professional, sometime in their life.  Although most of us have the capability to effectively cope with stressors and obstacles, sometimes we need a little extra help.   I will work quickly to help you feel at ease while establishing a sense of trust.  I believe that every human being has the right to receive services with dignity and respect.  I always explain to my clients that I will not judge them for what they tell me or for the decisions they make.  If I were to judge them, then I would have to judge myself and everyone I know personally.  I view therapy as journey.  It is always the client who chooses their own destination and pace of the journey.  It is my job to work hard at helping you navigate through your own personalized journey.

I received my MSW from Loyola University, Chicago.  Since then, I have over 17 years of experience as a therapist.  I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor.  I have maintained my own part time private practice for the past 12 years. I have experience providing individual, group, marital and family therapy in the following environments: community mental health centers, outpatient settings, therapeutic schools, nursing homes, hospitals, residential facilities and in homes.  I have provided therapeutic interventions to children, adolescents, adults and the elderly.  I seek my own professional growth and development, so that I am capable of providing quality services to those who are in need.  I commonly utilize Cognitive Behavioral interventions, paying close attention to systems, family dynamics, client-centered and holistic approaches.  I am specialty trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis.   I have years of experience working with clients who experience symptoms associated with depression/mood disorders, grief, anxiety, PTSD and trauma, sexual abuse, childhood abuse and neglect, addictions, anger, relationship problems, school problems, family stress, divorce,  etc.  I also have experience with clients who self-harm, who experience suicidal ideation, who have legal problems, who have developmental and/or intellectual disabilities, and with those who identify with the LGBTQ+ community.  Additionally, I always respect all races, genders, sexual orientations, religious/spiritual beliefs and political beliefs that may be different than my own. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this brief description of who I am and how I can help you.  I hope to hear from you soon.!