Mental Health advocacy is my passion. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have spent 12 years within the healthcare industry honing my specialties which include: chronic medical illness, caregiver/medical provider burnout, end-of-life, and most recently childfree life. I love showing up for my clients in meaningful ways, and witnessing growth is my favorite thing about this role. I offer both onsite and virtual appointments, currently serving adults 18+. My office is located within the Greater Gainesville, Florida area, and I can accommodate state-wide virtual appointments in both Florida and Georgia. If you are curious about therapy or if anything below speaks to you, please feel free to contact me for a free consultation. I fully recognize that time is one of your greatest investments in this life. Why not invest time in yourself? Therapy can be messy, painful, and nonlinear. It can also be lifechanging and freeing. I look forward to offering a safe space for you to show up as you are and look forward to witnessing your growth. 

What treatment areas do you specialize in?

My client base tends to be, be not limited to, business professionals who are seeking a shift, personal/professional growth, self-love, or clarity. 

I offer support to healthcare professionals who combat a broken system, deal with high census, insurance driven care/metrics, limited resources, challenging team members, and burnout. I provide a listening ear to those who suffer from chronic medical illness and/or their caregivers who deal with similar issues within a flawed healthcare system. I initially started my journey as a social worker within the hospice setting, so I am comfortable making space for emotional ventilation for my clients at end-of-life.

Most recently, I developed a passion to support women and men who consider themselves childfree; whether this be by way of personal choice, medical anomaly/complication, financial barriers, empty nesters, etc. 

Why did you become a therapist?

I always knew that I wanted to work in the Mental Health field from a young age, I just didn’t know how this would manifest for me. I randomly met a Social Worker in the community, and she inspired me to apply for a Master’s program which seemed like a fast track to becoming a therapist. Around the same time, my great grandmother was admitted to hospice. I found out that Social Workers play a pivotal role within the hospice setting, and this is where my passion for dying with dignity started. Healthcare was the industry that built me, but therapy is where my home is. 

What can a client expect to experience in session with you?

In session, I strive to show up authentically where my clients are. I believe the perfect recipe for rapport with clients begins by simply showing up together. My client’s goals become the center of our sessions. You will come to find that you have the answers to the problems you are seeking, you just may need a little help by dusting off the tools to get there. My goal is trust which takes time, and I am a patient clinician. Once there is trust, this is when all the magic happens. My client’s privacy will remain confidential, and I respect each client’s right to self-determination. 

What treatment tools or modalities do you use in your practice?

Rooted in Strengths Perspective, my approach to therapy challenges negative thought patterns with the goal to increase self-love and decrease negative symptoms through compassion and mindfulness. Whether you are seeking general Talk Therapy, CBT, CBCT/guided meditations, each of my clients receive unique treatment plans and therapeutic interventions driven by client-centered goals. 

How do issues of Identity, Equity, and Justice influence your role?

I am a Social Worker at baseline, so it is naturally ingrained in me to treat every person with respect and dignity. Working in healthcare for over a decade has exposed me to many inequalities and systemic prejudices that I strive to mitigate. My passion for advocacy of all individuals means that as a therapist, my door remains open to anyone who is brave enough to enter. I strive to continue to learn and expand my competencies through specialized training, continuing education, supervision, and reputable published material.

What’s your go to coffee order?

I am admittedly a big fan of Starbies. A Grande (or Venti) Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso very well may be the best way to start the day. I am also a sucker for Pumpkin Spice, so fall tends to be my favorite season. Add a little Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam on top, and I am thriving!!

What made you want to work at Arise?

 I recently relocated from Georgia and was introduced to Dr. VanAusdale. I felt immediately connected with her and how she shows up for her community is truly inspiring. I have big plans here at Arise and am excited to be a part of such a special network of clinicians and interns. Upon building a robust practice at Arise Wellness, my goal is to offer support groups for my special client populations. This will be a wonderful way to connect within the community. Stay tuned for this development.

How do you believe change happens?

Wholeheartedly, change happens when there is trust, safety, and authentic rapport. In therapy, these things take time, and readiness to receive change is essential.