Connection. Relationship. Love. This is what being human is about. And yet, it can be very difficult to feel connected and loved, especially in our busy society. We all stumble. Many of us lack role models for true connection, which requires intimacy, vulnerability, truth, and yes, pain and conflict.

 

My initial years as a therapist focused on attachment between parents and children.  With expanded knowledge and experience, I’ve learned how much we need these same attachments and attunements as adults.  For many of us, the therapeutic relationship may be the first place we really learn to attune to ourselves.  

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Joy and meaning come from leaning into vulnerability and intimacy with ourselves and others. As we learn how to be comfortable in difficult times, we grow. In our work together, I will help you connect with your internal world and share your authentic self safely with others. This is key to finding our way out of pain, suffering and loneliness, and into joy.

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Supporting you on your journey

I bring my training, experience, compassion, and empathy to our relationship to help you release old, unhelpful habits and patterns. We will work together to dig deep and find the tools to transform pain into growth. In sessions, I use a systemic approach including  my knowledge of attachment, trauma resolution, IFS (Internal Family Systems), EFT (Emotionally Focus Therapy), somatic modalities, DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), holistic therapies, yoga and mindfulness.  I am continually learning and growing personally and as a therapist. I bring it all to our sessions.  

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Parent Support

Raising children in an ever changing world can be a challenge. Knowing how to talk about the tough stuff is hard, yet, within the communication is an opportunity to help children and teens learn to open up to their complex inner world and to share it with those they rely on. I utilize various modalities to help caregivers connect with young people to work through the difficult developmental tasks and guide them into healthy and successful maturity. During our work together, I support parents in developing their attunement and intuition, learn about development, and set appropriate boundaries to have a balanced and enjoyable family life.  

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My personal and professional background to becoming a Therapist

I have been a life-long learner and seeker, and have deep compassion for the human experience.  I know that within our stumbles, and even toughest moments, we can often find our most valuable lessons. As we connect with our truest selves, we connect with others. In my down time, I enjoy spending time with my family, exercising and practicing yoga, hiking, mountain biking, volunteering, fostering animals and trying new things. I love having authentic conversations!

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Practical info

I earned a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from Cal State University, Northridge in 1996, and a Masters Degree in Counseling and Development from George Mason University in 2000. I am trauma certified, and continue to learn the latest modalities in the field of psychotherapy.  As a therapist, I use my professional training and my life experience to bring a holistic and dynamic approach to our work together.   I am licensed in Virginia and Pennsylvania,  and offer sessions in-person and via telehealth.  To get to know me a bit better, please contact us to set up a free phone consultation. Be well.