Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, Psychotherapist
With over 10 years of experience in the field of therapy, I am here to offer you the support and guidance you need to navigate life's challenges with grace. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share your thoughts, fears, and dreams. My commitment to your well-being will be unwavering, and I'm here to be your partner in your journey towards personal growth and self-discovery. Through our sessions, I will not only listen attentively but also provide you with the honest answers and guidance you seek. My approach is built on trust, respect, and a genuine desire to help you find the tools and insights necessary to overcome obstacles and lead a more fulfilling life. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, dealing with stress and anxiety, or seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and work towards the positive changes you desire.
I work with adults who want to change their lives and get to the root of what makes them think, feel, and react in ways that keep them stuck. They desire to lessen stress, reduce anxiety, and improve their relationships. We work together to understand and minimize their negative responses to triggers. We explore the events, thoughts, and feelings that led to painful relationships and low self-esteem. We work together to develop realistic individualized strategies to minimize unhealthy patterns that prevent joy and peace in their lives. We collaborate to implement realistic changes that improve their quality of life.
I’m really glad you’re here. I work with kids, teens, and adults to help them to live playfully, even when things feel like A LOT. My clients struggle like you and I do because life can just REALLY suck sometimes. Our entire world view, the way we see ourselves and respond to others can profoundly change after a traumatic event. As we shield ourselves from more pain, trauma can cause the parts of ourselves that are open to new experiences, ideas, our memories, and our even our bodies to close off. Therapy works to help reconnect us to those distant parts of ourselves, reinstating access to the full range of our potential and reigniting joy. I like to think of therapy like you’ve invited me over to your metaphorical home. What are your “house rules”? How many rooms are there and what’s in them? Should I take my shoes off before coming inside? We may not make it to the scary basement on day 1, but that’s okay. Our work will allow you to guide the tour and exploring your "house" together. Can I come in?
My practice focuses on children and parenting. As a doctoral-level psychologist, I can teach both of you valuable skills so that your child can be as healthy, happy, and successful as possible. My goal is for you to build a close, healthy relationship with your child and handle challenges in ways that flow naturally from that positive relationship. Children also have a safe space to process their emotions and learn new, healthier ways of responding to situations.
I am a fat, queer, neurodiverse, cisgender therapist who knows the importance of feeling seen and understood by your therapist. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I want to offer gender and queer-affirming services to those who identify as gay, lesbian, transgender, TGNC, gender non-conforming, genderqueer, gender fluid, intersex, CNM, polyamorous, kink, and questioning. I also believe in the importance of sharing space for multiple identities and being a culturally competent provider.
Welcome to Avena Psychological Services, where your journey to a more balanced and fulfilling life begins with the compassion and expertise of our team of dedicated therapists. We are committed to providing a supportive and non-judgmental space where our clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, struggles, and experiences with professionals who genuinely care and appreciate the privilege of being part of that journey. With a focus on creating collaborative and empathetic therapeutic relationships, our therapists will work alongside you to develop strategies and insights that empower you to navigate life's challenges. Avena Psychological Services is committed to helping our clients build resilience, gain clarity, and achieve their personal goals. Together, we will uncover your strengths and explore pathways to a more meaningful and satisfying life.
Psychologist, Licensed Psychologist, Nationally Registered Health Service Provider
I provide a strength-based approach that revolves around potential and possibilities. We'll tackle challenges in a way that helps you feel more empowered, confident, and content.
UPDATE 9/17/24: Now accepting new clients! Please message me to set up a free phone consultation. I provide psychotherapy for individuals facing a wide range of challenges and mental health concerns. My mission is to help people from all walks of life to ultimately live their best lives. I seek to empower those who are looking to better understand themselves, cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, or want to incorporate mental health into their overall well-being. My approach is NOT "one-size fits all." I work to personalize treatment to best match your specific needs and goals for therapy. If you seek a supportive and non-judgmental environment to tap into your most profound potential, choose me as your ally. Together we will identify your truest desires, pave the best courses of action to attain them, and help you become the greatest version of yourself!
13 Years Experience
