ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

We live in a fast paced and demanding world (expectations of self, others’ expectations of us, and our expectations of others). When stress, anxiety, and depression outside of our normal cycle of ups and downs occur… it can help to build a safe and effective working relationship with a professional mental health therapist. A therapist that is on the same page and meeting you where you are at, a therapist that collaborates on goals and expectations of therapy, a therapist that has sensitive understanding of your feelings, struggles, and can see your point of view in a supportive fashion. Research shows that therapeutic relationships with these elements in place significantly enhance the effectiveness of therapy and outcomes.

Humans are designed and equipped to heal themselves from within and according to neurological experts we possess all the tools to do just that. Holding space, learning information, understanding trauma and how we adapt, coping skills, and sometimes specific therapeutic methods can help you heal yourself, to understand behaviors caused by past experiences, to improve daily function, or just to feel a little better overall. Finding a safe and trusting place to explore what is currently not OK is the beginning of that healing process.

Safe and supportive relationships are the key to healthy neurological connections and development from birth.

“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.”

― Bessel A. van der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

A diverse range of life, work/career, and educational experiences contribute to understanding, non-judgment, and ability to hold space for you in the therapy environment. Helping you to understand the biology behind the behavior, strength-based trauma informed practice, and meeting people where they are at is the core of my therapeutic practice. Assisting you with finding your own solutions to life challenges is also a primary focus of therapeutic intervention.

I am a clinical Licensed Master Social Worker. I also have a Masters in Career and Technical Education which contributed to understanding leadership and system methodologies. Several years at the State of Michigan in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services also provided extensive training and opportunities in leadership, trauma, family prevention, child welfare, resource assistance, and cultural competence. I am trained and certified in MI, EMDR, TF—CBT, DBT, ACT and EAGALA therapies.

I have two children, two stepchildren and eight grandchildren who remind me every day of the most important values and experiences in life.

Come in for a 15-minute consult… if it doesn’t feel like a good fit – I will help you find professional assistance that is.