THE WORK:

In 2004 I received a Master’s degree in Social Work from Loyola University.  I provided therapy and case management to families in shelters through Catholic Charities. In 2007 I received my LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and began working at Howard Brown Health Center.  As the Youth Psychotherapist, I provided therapy for LGBTQ young people ages 12-24, supervised therapy interns, and facilitated LGBT trainings to surrounding agencies for 8 years.  I started my private practice in 2012.  In 2015 I became certified in EMDR.

THE ART:

Beyond learning therapeutic theories, diagnosis, and textbook interventions there is an art to therapy. Therapists can create a sense of connection, caring, and continuity within the session.  I am an emotional weathervane that attends to and responds to client language, tone, demeanor, and body language.

I learned how to be fully present with others from my early theater experiences, before being a therapist was on my radar.  The skills I developed in the performing arts have benefited my therapy practice.  Imagination is key in helping clients discover and acknowledge their hopes and desires.  Creativity is essential in creating options when client’s feel stuck.  Therapy is a place to practice, play, and grow into being our authentic selves.

THE CALL:

I am familiar with the acute pain and pressure of gender and sexuality and to be what other people wanted me to be.  I grew up in an environment of hyper masculinity that didn’t align with who I was.  I felt very isolated. My true interests and how I wanted to express myself  were forced underground as a result.  Uncovering what was buried was and continues to be a process. I find connection and inspiration from others who must learn to validate themselves when others do not.  My experience working with queer and racially diverse communities has shown me the power and benefit of chosen family. Because this work supports my own self-acceptance, I am able to navigate less affirming spaces to empower others and continue the work of anti-oppression.