What made you decide to become a counselor?

I have always had the desire to help people, and growing up I looked at many different helping professions. After seeing first had the positive impact therapy had on the lives of my loved ones, I began researching counseling. Following the events in Parkland, Florida in 2018, my desire to become a counselor became solidified. I found that becoming a counselor would allow me to support the individuals who are experiencing aftereffects and trying to rebuild their communities. I learned the importance of helping individuals navigate pre-existing mental health concerns and concerns that occurred following a crisis.

If you could teach the world one skill or technique to improve their lives, what would it be?

If I could teach the world one skill, I would teach everyone how to be an active listener. I think when everyone is using active listening, it can change the way we communicate for the better. It allows for everyone to be heard, but also allows for the listeners to clarify information, that way there are fewer misunderstandings.

Have you personally been in counseling and if so, what did you learn about yourself?

I have been to counseling! I have been in counseling on and off for most of my adult life during various life stages. One of the biggest things I learned about myself was that by challenging perfectionism, I was able to grow and accomplish more than I ever thought possible.

If you could recommend one book to all your clients, what would it be?

If I could recommend one book to all my clients it would be Daring Greatly by Brené Brown! I think she holds a lot of wisdom, and her writing breaks information down in such a way that it is simple and easy to understand.

Who is your ideal client?

My ideal client is someone who is open to the therapeutic process. Processing challenges and encouraging personal growth can be difficult, but it can all be worth it if you show up and do the work! Most of my work is focused on children, teens, and young adults. I also like to encourage clients to be creative as expressive arts and play therapy are part of my training.

What inspires you to help others?

I am inspired to help others because I believe that life is hard. There are various stages we walk through as people that are challenging, and often give us to much to carry on our own. I feel that I can help support and guide people through these times, they will be able to come out the other side feeling stronger and more confident in themselves. Watching people achieve their goals and dreams is what inspires me every day to be a therapist.

How do you personally practice self-care?

Personally, I practice self-care by journaling, painting, and baking. Spending time outside is very helpful in allowing me to reconnect so I enjoy walks or hikes as well!

How do you relate to Mindfulness? How do you incorporate it in your sessions?

I find that curiosity, compassion, and courage are some of the most important aspects of mindfulness. I think these aspects are also important in the therapeutic process. I incorporate mindfulness into sessions by practicing the skills with clients. I think that often times when people are encouraged to be more mindful, they don't know where to start. This can look like practicing meditation and breathing techniques, or ways to step back from situations before you react.

If you are hosting a dinner party, who are the 3 people you would invite and why?

This is such a tough question! If I was having a party with a therapist, I would invite Carl Rodgers, Virginia Axaline, and Gary Landrith. If it was a party of non-therapists, I would invite Ed Sheeran, Steve Irwin, and John Green.