Hello

As a proud resident of the Midwest and Rust Belt, I have been a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, dedicated to the field of mental health and counseling since 2012. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Forensics from Youngstown State University, followed by a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Counseling, focusing on addiction counseling. My career began in substance use treatment, where I developed a strong foundation in supporting individuals through recovery. Over time, I expanded my expertise into employee assistance programs, allowing me to serve a broader population. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision designation,  a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor, Department of Transportation qualified Substance Abuse Professional, and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional. I am privileged to work with law enforcement, first responders, and military veterans, addressing a wide range of challenges, including work-related stress, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief, trauma, PTSD, perinatal mood disorders, and life transitions. My commitment to providing compassionate, relatable support remains at the heart of my practice.

 

Research has shown the most significant predictor of success in counseling is the strength of the relationship between client and provider. Our initial session will focus on building this connection, allowing us to get to know each other. My primary aim is to understand what has brought you to therapy, your goals for change, and what aspects of your life you wish to preserve. I greatly value when clients share insights about what has been effective for them so far and where they still need support. For instance, hearing a client say, “I find homework assignments really helpful!” provides valuable guidance in tailoring the counseling process to your needs, ensuring a more effective and collaborative experience.

 

I have been practicing from a client-centered perspective within my practice since I began, and it has helped empower and motivate patients across the spectrum of ages, genders, and presenting concerns. My years working with substance use, mental health struggles, workplace stress, and the unique experiences of first responders and veterans have shaped my practice. This background lets me focus on providing care that’s not only effective but also feels personal and supportive.