About Me
I have always been fascinated by human behavior, especially during times of adversity. I believe that with strong therapeutic support and skills, one can overcome some of the biggest obstacles that life throws at us. This quickly became my reality when I started my undergraduate studies at The University of Illinois in Chicago, where I served as a crisis hotline volunteer. During my undergraduate years, I had the opportunity to not only expand my knowledge in psychology, but to also apply it in various settings. As I was closer to completing my bachelor’s degree, I soon realized I wanted to advance my knowledge, understanding, and advocacy of mental health, which could only be achieved by going to graduate school.
I started my graduate school at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology to learn how to enrich other individuals’ lives and relationships. My clinical training allowed me to apply my knowledge and support to individuals in various settings including juvenile detention centers, community mental health centers, inpatient forensic hospitals, and a Veterans Health Care System. I have worked with clients of all ages, permitting me to be highly flexible in my therapeutic approach. I received my master’s in clinical psychology in 2016 and obtained my Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology in 2019.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a more collaborative and relational approach to build safety and trust. It is imperative for me to meet my clients where they are at in life rather than speeding up or slowing down their healing process. I greatly value the therapeutic relationship that is built in the therapy room. In the age of advanced technology and fast-paced living, I aim to help my clients slow their thinking and express their emotions fully through mindfulness.
Areas of Focus
My clinical focus includes treating children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am also able to perform psychological evaluations to address difficulties in everyday living. I am integrative in my therapeutic approach, where I assess the needs of my clients and work with them to develop their own treatment goals. I practice from a multicultural perspective and greatly consider my clients’ cultural backgrounds in their treatment. This perspective not only helps my clients to be unique but increases my cultural competency as a clinician. I work with individuals of all ages whom may be struggling with a variety of mental health symptoms.
I typically use acceptance-commitment based therapies to create a life that is consistent with their personal values, while accepting the pain that comes along with living a meaningful life. I also employ Dialectical Behavior Therapy to treat mood disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and substance abuse. This form of therapy also aids in improving the client’s relationships, reactions to stressful situations, regulating their emotions, and staying present in the moment. Along with these therapies, I tend to utilize different systems therapies when working within a family dynamic.
Education
Psy.D., The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
M.A. in clinical psychology, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
B.A. in Applied Psychology, The University of Illinois at Chicago
