Personal Statement
It is a sacred exercise for me to sit with an individual through their toughest moments in life. I am honored to listen and engage with individuals on a daily basis through this important work. I have always mentored others and been a person others have confided in and sought out for guidance. No matter how young or how old an individual may be, if given the space to explore their life holistically, then growth and healing will come out of it. I have seen this occur in my life, as well as in the lives of those I have encountered over the years. I want to provide that same safe space so people can explore their sense of self and find meaning in their lives.
Who I Serve
Over the past years, I have worked with people of all ages. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I have found that I get super fired up when I am working with children and learning more about how to engage them in therapy. I have training in treating traumatized children, adolescents, and young adults. I also have experience with at-risk youth as well as using play as therapy with children.
Treatment Areas
- Play Therapy
- Social skills
- Emotional regulation
- Self-harm
- Trauma
- Depression
- Separation Anxiety
- Anxiety
- Identity
- Family conflict
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Anger management
- Life transitions
Approach
When I begin working with a client, I focus on our relationship together, knowing that trust is at the core of effective treatment. Utilizing person-centered, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral approaches I draw on my clients strengths to provide the best care for each person. I have educational training and background in Play Therapy, which helps my child clients more effectively process and explore the world around them.
Each individual I work with has the power to create change within themselves and their lives if given the space and opportunity to learn how to use it. I am here to help my clients discover the power they have within each of them to live a healthy life.
Experience
Prior to my clinical work, I found myself naturally helping others heal and find clarity in their lives. For the past eight years, I have been working with youth and families in the community. I have experience working in community mental health agencies providing care to individuals and families of all ages with various mental health concerns. During that time I was also trained in how to use play in therapy with children that have experienced trauma.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Spanish–Howard University in Washington, DC (2014)
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling–Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL (2016)
Additional training in Play Therapy–Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL (2016)
Credentials
CATP–Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional
LPC–Licensed Professional Counselor
NCC–National Certified Counselor
Affiliations
APT–Association for Play Therapy member
ILAPT–Illinois Association for Play Therapy member
IATP–International Association of Trauma Professionals member
Appearances
Outreach Community Ministries
IATP–International Association of Trauma Professionals
APT–Association for Play Therapy