About Me
Welcome
Starting the therapy process may be one of the most scary things you do in your life. Let me explain. You probably know that therapy consists of you sharing your most personal secrets with someone (that’s me) you just met. That typically doesn’t happen with someone (else) until after a few months. While the goal is to alleviate emotional pain, making that first phone call or sending that first message can be so frightening.
A Bit About Me
Before we meet, here’s a little info about me. Given that I am so easy to talk to, I allow that initial meeting to feel as comfortable as possible. When appropriate I use my witty, sometimes dry, sense of humor to help you be your authentic self. I strive to provide encouragement and growth at the very first session.
Initial Consultation
I am happy to have a brief consultation over the phone before the initial appointment to determine if we will be a good fit for one another. Once we agree to meet again, we’ll go ahead and talk about the reason you decided to seek therapy out now, what you have been struggling with, as well as some initial goals for therapy. I also like to get a sense of what previous therapy experiences have been like for you. Once you decide to move forward, I will schedule you at the next available time. For the moment, all appointments will be conducted virtually. The first session can range from 60-90 minutes, with follow-up sessions around 50-60 minutes. All necessary documentation will be completed at the initial session. Longer follow-up sessions are an option.
The First Session
At the first meeting, we will discuss what brought you in and how you would like life to be more peaceful and enjoyable. It is a collaborative process, which means your input is greatly valued. Over the course of treatment, you will learn skills and activities for you to implement between sessions and after we end treatment.
My Approach
In my work, I rely heavily on cognitive-behavioral (CBT) methods as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Overall, I utilize a client-centered approach as that is my given ability.
When to Seek Therapy
Everyone has a different gauge when it comes to the time to start therapy. I think it’s safe to say that one’s symptoms are getting in the way of daily functioning then it’s time to consider therapy.
My Background
I attended business school and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. I worked in public accounting for a couple of years at a large mid-size firm in Manhattan before enrolling in graduate school. To be honest, I wasn’t enjoying accounting and felt the urge to finally pursue a degree in psychology. As hard as it was, I knew it would be easier to make the switch when I did rather than wait. Psychology was always a passion, but I was scared off by the years of school. While working in accounting I found myself listening and talking with colleagues and clients about their struggles. I earned my Master’s in clinical psychology at the Psychology Doctoral Program of Argosy University in Arlington, VA. Since then, I received my LCPC (licensed clinical professional counselor) and have advanced training in trauma therapy, particularly in EDMR. I have an additional focus on children and parenting issues. A bulk of the presentations I have worked with include depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD (attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder) and adjustment disorders.
Outside the Office
When I am not helping people at work I am spending the rest of my time with my family, which often feels like a second full-time job. I enjoy reading books on history, psychology, and religion. Music is playing when I’m around. You can also find me outside playing ball with my kids or running down the block trying to follow them on their bikes.
Encouragement to Reach Out
Taking that first step to start therapy is daunting, but given my ability to connect with so many people, I strongly encourage you to reach out. People often convince themselves that things will get better with time. The reality is that things tend to get worse if you ignore them and allow them to fester. Even if you decide not to work with me, I encourage you to find another qualified therapist to guide you in your journey.