I have over 10 years of experience as both a licensed counselor and a teacher, and I understand the unique challenges that teens and tweens face today. I am also a Mother that has been through the ups and downs of adolescence and young adulthood. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where young people can explore their feelings, overcome obstacles, and forge a path toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
How I Can Help
I specialize in working with teens and tweens dealing with a range of issues, including:
- Anxiety and Depression-Helping navigate the emotional struggles that can often feel overwhelming. - OCD-Obsessional thoughts and behaviors. - Self-Harm and Isolation-Providing support for those who may be feeling lost or alone. - Academic Difficulties- Addressing the pressures of school that can contribute to mental health challenges. - Family Relationship Issues-Working together to improve communication and understanding within the family. - Behavioral Concerns- Supporting positive changes in behavior without judgment.
Therapeutic Approach
My approach to counseling combines various modalities, including:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)- Helping teens accept their feelings while committing to actions that align with their values. - Schema Therapy- Exploring and reshaping the core beliefs that influence behavior and emotions. - Parts Therapy- Identifying and integrating different aspects of the self to foster harmony and understanding.
I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process. For this reason, I require that teens genuinely want to come to therapy—coercion from parents isn’t effective and doesn’t set the stage for real growth. This space is not about enforcing rules or discipline; it’s about helping young people discover their own voice and make positive choices.
Family Involvement
Families play a crucial role in the therapeutic process. At times, family members may be invited to participate in sessions, fostering an understanding and supportive home environment. My goal is to strengthen relationships and improve communication, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.
Therapeutic Environment
I strive to make therapy an enjoyable and engaging experience. Humor and irreverence are often part of our sessions, helping to ease tension and build rapport. I incorporate various expressive techniques to explore feelings, including:
- Art-Using creative expression to process emotions and experiences. - Sand Tray- Engaging in play to visualize and work through complex feelings. - Narrative Journaling- Encouraging teens to tell their stories and reflect on their journeys.
Breaking Patterns
Together, we’ll work on breaking old patterns, overcoming peer pressure, and forging a new, individual path that resonates with who the teen truly is. My aim is to empower young people to thrive in their lives, both academically and personally.
If you’re looking for a compassionate, experienced therapist who understands the unique challenges of adolescence, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s embark on this journey together!