As a trauma-focused therapist, I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual and domestic violence, traumatic generational cycles, and systemic oppression. The effects of these traumas may show up as feeling unsettled in your body, cyclical thoughts, rumination, dysregulated relationships, avoidance, chronic pain, and fear or anxiety. Survivors may feel that they don’t know who they are because of trauma. Addictions and old habits may feel like they run the show, but in trauma-focused therapy we will shine an accepting light on your unmet needs and fulfill them in a new way that feels empowering. I understand that trauma can impact every aspect of your life, and I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, behaviors, and relationships in a supportive and empowering way.

My approach is grounded in mindfulness-based, mind-body centered, and trauma-focused techniques that honor every part of who you are. I am a strengths based, holistic therapist who utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic processing techniques, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and more. I strive to be anti-oppressive and anti-racist in every step of the therapeutic process.

One of my favorite aspects of therapy is its potential for personal transformation. Oftentimes trauma survivors feel limited and stuck after a traumatic experience. My therapeutic style pushes back against this narrative. While healing from trauma is often the primary focus of therapy, I believe that it can also be a space for growth, self-discovery, empowerment, and post-traumatic growth. Through our work together, we will explore your goals and desires and develop strategies to help you achieve them to take you from just surviving to thriving. My ultimate goal is to empower you to become your most authentic, fulfilled self, and to support you in creating a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

Couples Therapy

I firmly believe that relationships are a key component of our overall health and well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples develop healthy, rewarding relationships that support their growth and healing. Whether you are struggling with communication issues, sex-related concerns, or managing the aftermath of trauma in your relationship, I am here to help you navigate these challenges with compassion, empathy, and insight. I am kink, non-monogamy and sex positive and have experience working with LGBTQIA+ couples.

Experience

I have experience working with adults and couples from all walks of life, having worked in both community mental health and private practice settings. I have experience working with individuals who have PTSD, depression, anxiety, chronic pain disorders, and more. My experience has afforded me the opportunity to have a comprehensive understanding of the human experience and the systems and policies that create the conditions for our wellbeing.

Licensure

I am a Clinical Fellow at Balanced Awakening. I have several years of clinical experience and am accruing additional supervised practice to be eligible for the LCSW credential in the state of Illinois. I am supervised by Andrea Espinosa, LCSW outside of appointment times.