My background and approach

I bring a diverse range of therapeutic experience to my trauma-informed practice. Early in my training, I worked with inpatient populations dealing with substance use, eating disorders, and complex trauma. Through this, I saw firsthand the frustration that comes with trying to change painful symptoms through behavioral interventions, and how many approaches can unintentionally increase shame rather than support meaningful change. Over time, I came to realize that these symptoms, while troubling, often served a purpose in helping my clients cope, and that they resisted change out of fear that something worse might happen if they let go.

This experience led me to quickly appreciate the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. IFS recognizes that symptoms, or "parts," have a positive intention and were, at some point, helpful in managing life. Rather than fighting against these parts, getting to know their positive purpose can help them relax and adopt a more balanced internal role. As a result, the internal system feels less shame around these behaviors and becomes freer to make new, creative choices. If you're curious to learn more about IFS, visit ifs-institute.com.

Education and training 

I hold a Master of Arts in mental health counseling from Northwestern University, specializing in child and adolescent development.

My experience includes working inpatient at renowned institutions including Ashley Addiction Treatment and Sheppard Pratt Psychiatric Hospital, where I’ve treated individuals and groups struggling with substance use, eating disorders, and complex post-traumatic stress disorder. I have also facilitated trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) for adolescents and their families in residential treatment settings.

In private practice, I work with adults at all stages of life, from early adulthood to later years, supporting a wide range of challenges. My experience includes working with individuals struggling with alcohol use, disordered eating, early life trauma, anxiety, depression and stress related to work, school, family, and relationships.

I am a trained IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapist and am currently pursuing an advanced certificate in complex trauma and dissociation, as well as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) training, through the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation. I strive to ensure that my practice is rooted in the latest evidence-based approaches. 

About me

Born in Rockville, Maryland, and raised in Tampa Bay, I've proudly called Baltimore home for the past 20 years. I’ve come to love its hidden gems—historic architecture, trails, a growing restaurant and art scene, and the city’s rich diversity. I hope to make this eclectic city my forever home for years to come.

Before becoming a counselor, I started my career in fitness as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and Registered Yoga Teacher. I even completed a marathon in 2016! Nowadays, I’ve shifted to a gentler approach, focusing on Pilates, long walks in nature, and connecting mind and body through breath and awareness.

A few years ago, I led mental health hikes, an experience that deepened my appreciation for the healing power of nature. Though I didn’t consider myself particularly “outdoorsy” at the time, this experience opened my eyes to the calming effects of the natural world, inspiring me to spend more time exploring it. 

Interested in blending movement and mindfulness? Inquire about my outdoor walk-and-talk sessions for a fresh perspective—literally and figuratively.