Licensed Master Social Worker

My ideal client likely presents a collage of complex emotional and behavioral issues, characterized predominantly by anxiety, self-doubt, and difficulty in managing relationships. They may be a young adult navigating life transitions, such as leaving their educational environment for the workforce or experiencing shifts in relationships as they grow older. This client may struggle with pervasive negative thoughts, low self-esteem, or perfectionism, rendering it difficult for them to pursue their goals or maintain a healthy work-life balance. Their needs revolve around developing coping skills to manage anxiety, improving self-efficacy, and fostering fulfilling interpersonal relationships.

Importantly, this ideal client has the intrinsic motivation to pursue change; they want to understand why they feel the way they do and how those feelings manifest in their daily lives. They yearn for freedom from the grip of negative thinking, the overwhelming sense of inadequacy, or the fear of failure that can paralyze them. They will come into therapy with specific goals: to establish a more positive self-image, develop constructive coping mechanisms, enhance social skills, and find greater fulfillment in both personal and professional realms. They desire clarity and tools—skills they can actively utilize outside of our sessions to solidify the progress made during our time together.

As a therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer tools and strategies designed to address both the symptoms and the roots of my clients’ distress. CBT operates on the core principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. When clients undergo cognitive distortions—whether it be catastrophizing, black-and-white thinking, or other maladaptive thought patterns—they inevitably experience heightened emotional distress and dysfunctional behaviors. Therefore, our work will largely center on identifying these patterns, challenging their validity, and reframing them into healthier perspectives.

During our sessions, I will employ a variety of CBT techniques tailored to my client’s specific needs. For instance, through cognitive restructuring, we will collaboratively identify negative automatic thoughts and replace them with more balanced, rational alternatives. This process empowers clients by validating their experiences while encouraging a framework for change. Furthermore, we will utilize behavioral strategies, such as exposure therapy to face fears gradually or the use of activity scheduling to enhance mood and motivation through engagement in pleasurable activities.

Another important component of our work will involve mindfulness practices. These will empower my clients to remain present in their experiences and cultivate self-compassion, which is vital for building resilience against negative self-perceptions. By equipping my clients with a toolbox of cognitive and behavioral strategies, my goal is not just immediate symptom relief but to foster lasting change that enhances their quality of life over time.

I want my potential clients to know that therapy is a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. At our first meeting, I place great emphasis on truly listening to my clients’ narratives and empathizing with their struggles. Then I would Talk to the client by saying, “ It’s okay to feel vulnerable and unsure; I am here to hold that space.

I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process. Each person is unique, and I value what you bring to the therapeutic relationship. You have already taken the courageous first step by considering therapy, and my role will be to walk beside you as you navigate your challenges, gently guiding you to unleash your potential.