Freud, Yalom, and Jung – just a few of the names my mom would often discuss with my sister and me during our elementary school years. She had a knack for connecting our behavior, observations of others, and family dynamics back to one of these figures. Let me tell you, the influence of nurture can be incredibly powerful. Her passion for psychology was infectious, and from a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in this field.

I believe that a combination of my family’s influence and my role as the first-born/older sibling shaped me into becoming the “unofficial therapist” for all my friends throughout my adolescent years. To be honest, I still fulfill that role for my loved ones to this day. Through my own experiences and those around me, I have witnessed the profound impact of having a safe and trustworthy space to shed your outer mask and openly express your inner self. Removing my mask enabled me to understand the importance of setting boundaries. I used to prioritize the needs of others above my own, and while it made me feel good to help, it also led to anxiety and neglect of my responsibilities. This, in turn, caused disorganization, frustration, and self-disappointment. Over time, I’ve learned to establish healthy boundaries and refine my executive functioning skills, allowing me to function optimally both for myself and the people in my life.

Collaboration and connection lie at the heart of my approach as we navigate through your life stories and obstacles. Receiving support, validation, and compassion are essential components of one’s healing journey. I understand that it takes a great deal of courage to be present and show up for yourself, and I look forward to meeting you there.