Throughout my life, I’ve learned how important it is to trust my inner experience as well as emotions and thoughts to help guide my personal journey of growth. As I’ve navigated the world around me, a defining lesson has been made clear: the importance of asking for help. I believe in the self-capacity and resilience that each person possesses, and strive to help others see the potential in themselves. My own experience with therapy, which at first felt a bit scary, has shown me how providing acceptance, trust, and compassion can truly bring out personal growth, which has helped shape me into who I am today. My goals are aligned with whatever you bring into therapy, and you will be met with openness, compassion, and authenticity.

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I have had many personal and professional experiences that have brought me to this point, and that have nurtured my passion for helping others. After receiving my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, I worked for several years as a backpacking guide in the western North Carolina mountains, as well as a trip leader for hiking, camping, climbing, and biking expeditions. I worked and lived at a ski area in the snowy mountains of Utah for two winter seasons, and then transitioned to working with children and adolescents at an inpatient mental health treatment center. I’m currently attending Appalachian State University to complete my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also currently working with college students on academic probation to help them build skills and strategies for their academic and personal success. These experiences have displayed how every person’s identity is unique and that there is hope for anyone going through struggles.

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I feel fortunate to have worked with children, adolescents, and young adults, and continue to find immense value in learning from people across the lifespan. My commitment to providing a welcome and inclusive space for everyone is essential, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions/spiritual practices are always welcome. My focus areas include issues around depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, identity, life-transitions, coping skills, relationship struggles, and familial/societal expectations. I feel specifically interested in working with identity exploration, finding self-acceptance, and the complex relationships that accompany familial/societal expectations. Navigating life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, and I believe that every person has the strength needed to overcome them. You are more resilient than you realize, and through our work together you will have the space to discover this.

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My counseling approach is based in Person-Centered theory, which means that the client is the expert of their own life. I will meet you with nonjudgement, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I find value in present moment experience, mindful awareness, and also believe in the worth of Expressive Arts, as freedom of expression can be a powerful aid in the healing process. Every voice deserves to be heard and my hope is to provide a welcoming space where you can openly express any emotions. I hope to assist you in finding skills and strategies that you can take with you into your everyday life, and to equip you with tools to use in a variety of situations. Together, we can set goals for you to accomplish and address challenges that you may face, and create an environment where you feel empowered to do so. Or, I can simply be a supportive presence for you in whatever you are feeling. Our therapeutic relationship will be created based on your needs, and you will have the choice to explore wherever you’re at in your journey.

When I’m not practicing counseling I enjoy being with friends and family, cooking, and spending time outdoors, usually hiking, running, camping, or biking. I love being in the mountains and am always looking for ways to reconnect with nature and the community it holds. I also love reading books and listening to music, and live by the idea that I may not have heard my favorite song yet. I look forward to getting to know you and to begin our work together!

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