Inspiration:
For as far back as I can remember, I have always been the one friends and family have come to to talk about their struggles. I have always been interested in why we do the things we do and what makes us who we are. Being a good listening ear, empathic heart, and problem solver are qualities that I’ve always found to be part of who I am, so choosing a career as a helping professional seemed like a no-brainer – something that was truly my calling and purpose. Throughout the years, my personal challenges, as well as difficulties that those close to me have endured, have brought me to “practice what I preach.” These experiences have instilled in me an even greater connection and passion to help people through difficult emotions and relationships, and find greater peace, happiness, and ability to cope with whatever the future might bring.
Education and Licensure:
I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work from Marist College in 2008, and continued on to earn Master of Arts and Educational Specialist degrees in Professional Counseling from Seton Hall University in 2010. I hold a license from the NJ Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Exam to provide services as a Licensed Professional Counselor, license # 37PC00543400.
Experience and Specialties:
During the decade that I have been in the mental/behavioral health field, I have worked in hospital settings, intensive outpatient, and outpatient environments providing individual, family, and group therapy. Additionally, I have provided phone-based counseling services. I have had a unique array of professional experiences working with individuals in many different life stages (children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly) and with varied emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles (ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, personality disorders, parenting issues, life transitions, etc.). I have also worked with individuals and families of those diagnosed with advancing, chronic, and/or terminal illnesses, and have extensive knowledge and practice in guiding people through advance care planning. I have been intensively trained in evidenced-based treatment models, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Through utilization of these techniques, I have been able to successfully assist individuals in overcoming symptoms related to sexual abuse and traumatic familial changes. I have also helped people work towards their goals of making communication and behavior changes to live a life which truly reflects their values and in which they feel more content.