Young adulthood is such a pivotal time in one’s life. You may be living on your own, apart from your family for the first time, and coming into your own, or preparing to take that next step. You are learning more about what makes you “you” as you navigate the rollercoaster that is life.
This time can often be filled with many questions. “Who am I?” “What am I passionate about?” and “What do I want to spend my life doing?” In a society that insists on you having all the answers, you may struggle to discover your “why”.
I prioritize providing a safe place to explore these questions. Whether you identify as LGBTQ or are neurodivergent, what you bring to the table deserves to be celebrated. Through a strength-based practice, I work to empower clients to recognize the power that is within them, while also helping you build coping skills to equip you to navigate every day challenges.
It is easy to feel misunderstood in the world that we live in. A world that can sometimes feel narrow-minded and limiting in who you have to be in order to be accepted by others, especially for members of marginalized communities. Whether you are coming to therapy to heal from traumatic experiences, to explore your gender and sexuality, or to navigate anxiety and depressive symptoms, I recognize that coming to therapy is not easy. Utilizing a trauma-informed lens, my goal is to meet you where you are at, while providing a safe environment for exploration. As a therapist, I would describe my approach as “gentle and warm, yet direct”.
I work with young adults and adolescents, and specialize in LGBTQ issues, trauma, neurodivergence, depression and anxiety. I utilize a client-centered approach and a medley of modalities including but not limited to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I recognize that each client is different, and therefore need an approach that is as unique as you are.
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make
you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Prior to joining Bodhi Counseling I provided therapy services to college students with disabilities. My additional work in mental health includes three years working for an employee assistance program where I provided in-the-moment support, counseling referrals, and work/life resources to employees working at companies around the world. I also have experience working with adolescents in a residential treatment setting.
When not at Bodhi, you can find me laying in the sun on a hot summer day, or cozying up on the couch with my two cats (when they are feeling up to it!). I love to read, go to concerts, watch Gilmore Girls, and enjoy frequenting and supporting local businesses, especially restaurants.
Accepted Insurances: HAMP, BCBS, U of I Student Insurance, Private Pay