What does “trauma-informed” mean in your practice?

In my work, trauma-informed care is the foundation. I always keep in mind that trauma affects how we see the world, relate to others, and the narratives we construct about ourselves. I focus on meeting basic needs like safety, calm, and trust before moving forward. This might mean slowing down, checking in about what feels safe to share, or simply noticing what’s happening right now. You set the pace; there’s no rush to reveal or understand everything quickly.

Together, we create a space that feels safe and respectful. I offer tools and guidance, but you decide what works and how we proceed.

Being trauma-informed means I watch for signs from your nervous system. I notice your tone, pace, and emotional state. I welcome pauses, side topics, and silence. Whether we’re doing EMDR, talking through challenges, or just being present, I hold space for all of your experiences, not just what seems “therapeutic.”

Above all, healing happens in our relationship. My job isn’t to fix or label you; it’s to support you with care, honesty, and curiosity.

How do EMDR sessions work, and who might benefit?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy that helps people process distressing memories, beliefs, and body sensations. It’s often used for trauma but also works for anxiety, grief, fears, and other stuck places where talk therapy alone might not be enough.

In my practice, we start with building tools to help your nervous system stay calm. We’ll create a clear plan outlining what we’ll work on, how to check progress, and what to do if things get hard. You’ll always know what to expect and have support throughout.

I received my EMDR training through the Institute for Creative Mindfulness, an EMDRIA-approved program. I’m EMDR-trained and attend regular consultation as I work towards certification.

EMDR might be a good fit if you’ve tried other types of therapy and still feel stuck, or if you’re carrying memories or patterns that feel overwhelming, confusing, or hard to talk about. We will discuss together whether this approach is right for you, always prioritizing your readiness.

What is a discovery session?

A discovery session is a low pressure way to begin. It’s not therapy yet, but a chance to meet, ask questions, and see if we’re a good fit.

In the first 20 minutes, I’ll ask about what’s been hard or heavy for you. You can share as much or as little as you want. I’ll explain how I work and we’ll cover practical things like scheduling, privacy, and payment.

If it feels like a good fit, we’ll shift into a full session. That might mean starting to map out what you want from therapy, noticing what’s coming up in the moment, or just sitting with what’s real. You’ll always have the option to pause, reschedule, or take time to think it over.

I might ask:

• What feels overwhelming lately?

• What kind of support do you need now?

• Have you tried therapy before? What helped or didn’t?

There’s no rush to have all the answers. You only need to be ready to begin.

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

Yes, I offer appointments most evenings and on Sundays. If you're not seeing a time that works for you on my calendar (click “Book Now”), feel free to reach out. We can often find something that fits.

What’s your background and training?

I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University, a CACREP-accredited program that emphasizes strong clinical skills and real-world care. While there, I chose electives in religious trauma and grief and loss—areas that show up often in the stories people carry, and that deserve thoughtful support.

Before grad school, I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in family studies and went straight into direct care. Since 2015, I’ve worked in a range of settings, primarily in community mental health, where I have spent years supporting folks through complex, layered challenges.

I’m still actively involved in a community mental health agency, and that work continues to shape how I show up as a therapist. My private practice isn’t a replacement for that system, but a way to offer care to folks who might not qualify for services, who’ve stepped away from agency-based support, or who want a space that feels steadier, slower, and more personal.

My practice is built on the belief that therapy should feel accessible, human, and rooted in real connection.