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What made you decide to become a counselor?

I pursued a career in counseling because therapy profoundly transformed my understanding of myself, my relationships, and the world around me. The experience of working with a compassionate and supportive counselor inspired me to cultivate a similar environment in which others can feel acknowledged and supported as they engage in personal growth and healing. A quotation that resonates deeply with me, often attributed to Marcus Aurelius, is: “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” This statement underscores the significance of developing awareness of our inner experiences and approaching our thoughts with curiosity and compassion.

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, it would be radical acceptance. Radical acceptance is the practice of acknowledging reality as it is, rather than as we wish it were. This does not mean approving of painful experiences, giving up, or pretending something is okay when it is not. Instead, it means allowing ourselves to stop fighting what has already happened, so we can respond with greater clarity and care. So much of our suffering comes not only from pain itself, but from the added struggle of resisting, replaying, or arguing with reality. When we can gently accept where we are, we create more space for self-compassion, emotional regulation, and meaningful change.

Have you personally been to counseling? If so, what did you learn about yourself?

Yes, I have been and continue to be an active participant in my counseling journey. Therapy has helped me navigate difficult seasons, deepen my self-understanding, strengthen my relationships, and build coping skills that support meaningful change. It has also taught me to approach myself with compassion, curiosity, and accountability as I continue to grow.

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

Choosing just one book is nearly impossible, but if I had to pick, I would recommend The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz. It is a quick, accessible read and a meaningful roadmap for intentional personal growth. I appreciate how it encourages self-awareness, intentional communication, and a more compassionate relationship with ourselves and others.

How do you personally practice self-care?

I practice self-care as an ongoing process of recognizing my needs and responding to them with compassion. Rather than following a rigid routine, I focus on practices that help me feel grounded, present, and connected to myself. These may include setting aside quiet time for reflection, spending time outdoors, moving my body, maintaining meaningful connections with others, or allowing myself adequate rest.

How do you relate to mindfulness? How do you incorporate it into your sessions?

I view mindfulness to reconnect with the present moment by cultivating curiosity, compassion, and nonjudgment. In sessions, I often encourage clients to slow down and observe their body, thoughts, emotions, or breath at their own pace. For example, if a client feels overwhelmed, I might guide a brief grounding exercise focused on the breath or the senses to help them become more present, stable, and connected.