I decided to pursue a career in behavioral health because I care deeply about helping people overcome the struggles that hold them back in life. Whether it’s addiction, trauma, or navigating a society that doesn’t always feel welcoming, I want to be a guide for people who need support. My background as a U.S. Army and Navy veteran gave me a chance to work with people from all walks of life. Those experiences, along with 13 years as a public-school teacher, taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and understanding that everyone’s path is different. These experiences shaped my desire to move into counseling, where I could focus on helping people heal and grow. 

I feel like I work best with people who might not always feel like they belong or who struggle to find their voice. I especially enjoy working with marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with autism, and people of color. I understand how society can sometimes create challenges and trauma for these groups, and I want to help them feel seen and supported. I also connect well with individuals battling addiction, whether it’s related to substances, eating disorders, or other habits they want to break free from. My goal is to meet every client where they are and create a safe space where they can feel heard and understood. 

What shapes my approach to counseling is everything I’ve learned through my life and work experiences. Being in the military taught me resilience, teamwork, and the importance of adapting to different situations. My years in the classroom taught me how to connect with people individually because no two students—or clients—are the same. I carry those lessons into counseling, where I use approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR to tailor the process to each client’s unique needs. I believe one day of trauma can change someone’s entire direction in life, but I also believe therapy has the power to help people heal and rediscover their path. 

On a personal note, I’ve faced my own challenges in life, so I understand what it’s like to feel stuck or unsure of how to move forward. I know how hard it can be to navigate life when everything feels overwhelming. That’s why I’m so passionate about being a counselor—because I know change is possible with the right support. Whether it’s with me or one of the other amazing counselors I work with, I want my clients to know they don’t have to face life’s tough moments alone.