How I Approach Treatment

My approach is collaborative and centered on building upon each client's strengths, inner resources, and capacity for self-compassion. I work with teens and adults of all ages experiencing chronic anxiety, emotional pain, and fear, often stemming from early traumatic experiences, significant losses, or complicated grief.

Healing from trauma begins in the context of a safe, attuned relationship. I strive to create a space where clients feel deeply seen, understood, and accepted, helping the nervous system to feel safe enough to settle and making it possible to explore difficult experiences at a pace that feels manageable and supportive. I initially focus on building trust while teaching practical coping strategies to help clients better manage difficult emotions. Honesty, warmth, and authenticity are essential to effective therapy. Teens, in particular, know when someone is not being genuine. I take an active and engaged approach, meeting clients where they are and helping them feel safe enough to move forward toward healing.

Supporting You on Your Journey

I understand the importance of attunement, encouragement, and support throughout the healing process. I balance the seriousness of your pain with compassion and, when appropriate, a touch of humor.

I bring extensive training and almost three decades of clinical experience, combined with genuine care, to help you release patterns and habits that no longer serve you. Together, we will work at a pace that feels safe and manageable, using a variety of therapeutic approaches to transform pain into growth, resilience, and greater self-understanding.

I utilize somatic modalities, including EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP). Using an integrative approach, we work collaboratively to help you process and integrate difficult experiences so that previously triggering situations no longer carry the same emotional intensity.

I also incorporate sand tray therapy and mindfulness practices into my work. My relational approach is central to helping clients feel safe, empowered, and hopeful about their future.

Certification/Education/Licenses

I completed my EMDR training over 25 years ago and hold a certification in EMDR Therapy. I also have extensive training and practice in Ego State Therapy, which focuses on healing young wounded emotional parts.

I earned a Masters degree in Clinical Social Work from Simmons College School of Social Work (now Simmons University). 

I am licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia (telehealth only). My professional affiliations are with National Association of Social Workers (NASW), EMDRIA (EMDR International Association), and Therapy First.

A Bit More About Me

I’ve been married for almost 25 years and have two grown daughters. My hobbies include hiking, walks with my dear old dog, more vigorous walking with friends and family, reading, watching TV series, dancing, yoga, kayaking, and traveling.