As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), I help adults and adolescents to find balance and fulfillment in their lives by addressing the challenges associated with eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression – all of which have a way of robbing strong, capable people of their energy, inspiration and sense of connection to the world around them. While these are the mental health concerns that I specialize in, I’m also passionate about working with individuals struggling with social anxiety, relationship dissatisfaction, and work-life balance, as well as those adjusting to life transitions – such as starting or graduating from college, pursuing a new career, getting married or coping with a break-up or divorce. It is important to acknowledge that we aren’t born knowing how to deal with these issues, no matter how universal they may be.
About Me
I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and English literature from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have worked with clients of all ages and at various levels of care, including intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, where I provided individual therapy, family therapy and group therapy. Prior to becoming a therapist, I held professional roles within a talent management company in Los Angeles and an advertising agency here in Chicago. While those experiences helped me grow in many ways, and I loved being surrounded by such hardworking, creative people every day, I am grateful that my interest in listening to people’s stories and connecting on a more personal level ultimately led me to a career in counseling.
My Approach
My treatment philosophy is based on the principle that we have to understand and accept ourselves before we can move toward change that is meaningful and sustainable. At the core of my work with each client is a collaborative therapeutic relationship, which I believe provides the foundation from which self-exploration, empowerment, and healing come together. I use an integrative approach, drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based therapy models that promote insight, self-awareness and symptom reduction. With compassion and respect, I challenge clients to consider different perspectives and to show up in their lives in new ways. When working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, I partner with dietitians, physicians and treatment centers, as needed, in order to provide comprehensive care.