Have you ever wished you or your child had someone who could truly connect with what you're going through? Someone who understands the overwhelm, the worry, and the challenges that can come with everyday life? Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, or helping a child who is struggling, I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported.

With 25 years of experience in education, including 17 years as a school counselor, I bring a unique perspective to my work as a therapist. I earned my Associate in Applied Science in Recreation Leadership from the State University of New York Agricultural and Technical College at Farmingdale and my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Douglass College. I continued my education at Rider University, earning a Master of Arts through the College of Liberal Arts, Education, and Science and an Education Specialist degree in Counseling. I particularly enjoy working with children ages 5 to 14, as well as adolescents and adults experiencing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. My approach is warm, genuine, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship.

Having spent so many years working in schools, I understand how difficult it can be for children and families to navigate academic pressures, behavioral concerns, social difficulties, emotional challenges, and the educational system itself. I enjoy helping parents better understand their children's needs, advocate for appropriate support, and navigate the challenges that arise both at school and at home. I also particularly enjoy working with autistic individuals, helping them better understand themselves, navigate relationships, and build on their unique strengths.

Another area of my clinical experience is working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. I understand how complicated our relationships with food, our bodies, and ourselves can become, and I strive to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore these challenges and develop healthier ways of coping.

As both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I also work with individuals experiencing substance use concerns, behavioral addictions, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I enjoy helping clients understand the patterns underlying their struggles and develop the tools needed to make meaningful, lasting changes. I have also found family therapy to be especially rewarding, as it provides opportunities to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and help family members better understand one another.

My therapeutic approach incorporates Humanistic and Positive Psychology, along with evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I am also OutCare certified in culturally competent care for the LGBTQ+ community. My professional background includes inpatient and outpatient treatment, early intervention services, hospital-based counseling, and private practice. Additionally, I hold certifications as an Anti-Bullying Specialist, Prevention Specialist, and Intervention & Referral Services Coordinator.

Outside of the therapy office, my greatest joy is spending time with my family, especially my twin grandsons, who mean the world to me. I love cooking, reading nonfiction, and learning new things. I've also developed a passion for weight training and barre, and you can often find me at the gym when I'm not spending time with my grandsons or seeing clients. I believe that continuing to grow, stay curious, and take care of ourselves is important at every stage of life.

Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself, your child, or your family, my goal is to provide a welcoming space where you feel comfortable being yourself. I would be honored to help you navigate life's challenges, recognize your strengths, and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling future.