Services
About My Clients
Many of my clients have experienced chronic illness (including cancer, kidney disease), grief/loss, family conflict, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss of routine &/or job, trauma, loss of identity. Developing safety & trust in therapy will be part of our initial work. Your vulnerabilities & uncertainties are welcome. *EMDR trained (August, 2022); EMDR trained- Advanced Level (June, 2024). *Certified Grief Educator: February, 2023 (David Kessler Training)
My Background
My desire to become a Social Worker began when I was 12 years old. The Counselor at our school was also our basketball coach. He often smiled, appearing to have fun with my peers. During road trips, I had the chance to get to know more about him. Essentially, I decided I wanted to be him one day. However, at the time, I wanted to be a Veterinarian. Unfortunately (or fortunately), Biology did not agree with me to the extent needed! As a result, my love of animals did not give way, but my desire to become a Social Worker gave in. The rest followed. I obtained my Master of Social Work in 2007 from The University of Illinois at Chicago - Jane Addams College of Social Work, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the first time in my home state of IL in 2011, where I maintain an active license. I am also licensed in MA (LICSW), & NJ (LCSW). I like to limit, "therapist lingo," in my sessions in order to accommodate various learning styles and needs.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
I am an advocate for those who struggle or were not fortunate enough to have certain life privileges, and believe in doing/saying what is right despite pushback from large corporations or other entities. Social justice issues are important to me. I have no tolerance for hate/discrimination of any kind, or my clients being taken advantage of. Having a heart can go a long way towards making a positive difference in even just one person. I believe in staying true to who you are. Outside of work, I am a lifelong Chicago Bulls fan, and believe our day will come again! I adopted the LA Clippers while living in Southern California. I love animals (especially dogs), going for walks, watching movies, playing/watching basketball, & I'm learning piano!