The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (B.S., Psychology)
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (M.S., Counseling)
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (EdS., Counseling)
College/University counseling; Women’s concerns; Identity Development; Marginalized populations; Body Image concerns; Interpersonal relationships; Wellness, Mindfulness, and Holistic health. The presenting concerns I typically work with include anxiety, depression, stress management/coping skills development, family relationship concerns, identity concerns, issues of gender, race, and ethnicity, as well as individuals seeking counseling for personal growth and development.
Conceptually, my perspective on clients is framed by three distinct counseling theories: Adlerian, Existential, and Feminist. This multidimensional approach guides my understanding of individuals’ experiences. I firmly hold the belief that our formative encounters not only sculpt our personal development, but also grant us a window into our current behaviors and concerns, as well as the covert motivations and cognitive patterns that drive us (in line with Adlerian theory). Furthermore, with every beginning there must be an end, to which it is my belief that the concepts of human existence (death, freedom, responsibility, purpose, and the meaning of life) are universally applicable to all and many presenting concerns have their roots in these existential struggles. Lastly, recognizing the intricate interplay between individuals and their larger contexts, I operate from the belief that marginalized groups, particularly women, face an elevated risk of mental health struggles. This risk emanates from the psychological distress induced by systemic oppression, violence, and discrimination. In my clinical practice, I aim to cultivate the individual’s sense of self and foster a fortified self-concept, irrespective of their assumed identities. Within the confines of the brief-therapy model commonly employed in college and university campus counseling, my approach centers on focusing on a limited set of achievable, measurable goals for treatment. This strategy prioritizes enhancing the client’s motivation for change and cultivating effective coping mechanisms, thereby instigating positive progress.
I am a mother of 2 awesome kids (3 if you count our sheepadoodle, Murphy) and have been married for 16 years to my husband whom I met in college (go Seahawks!). I am a self-professed nerd, love being outdoors and live music. While my professional persona often comes across as energetic, loud and a bit goofy, I am an introvert by nature, cherishing my alone time and avoiding small-talk as much as possible. As a foodie, I’m always down to try out new cuisine and/or restaurants and have a weakness for doughnuts and chips/salsa.