Your story matters; tell it. Making the decision to pursue counseling is brave-I know because I’ve done it. I don’t think I have the right to sit in the “therapist chair” and counsel others without having worked on my own issues in the seat you are thinking about taking. I have been in counseling at various times in my life and am committed to an ongoing process of self-awareness and growth.
I find myself continually in awe of the natural human capacity for resilience and am inspired by my clients’ abilities to uncover strength they didn’t know they had. It is a true honor to be part of someone’s journey as they harness that strength to accomplish their goals, whether it be to heal, let go, or grow and ultimately thrive. I opened Pathways to Growth in 2012, to fulfill my passion of connecting with and helping others. It has been a joy to develop relationships with my clients as they make positive changes in their lives.
My education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Michigan State University, a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina and a Certificate in Play Therapy from the University of North Carolina Charlotte. I am Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) and in the process of becoming trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My years of experience in the field have provided me with the opportunity to work with people of all ages, genders, religions, races, ethnicities and sexual orientations. I have experience working in client’s homes, outpatient treatment centers and in a private practice setting. I specialize in play therapy, a treatment model that is most appropriate for pre-school and elementary age children but also enjoy working with adolescents, adults and families.
My social work background has led me to utilize a systems theory approach in working with clients. I view the interconnection between the various systems in your life as a key component in working together and in facilitating the change you wish to see. I have training and experience in other theoretical models, which allows me to meet you where you are and individualize the therapeutic process based on your needs. I believe that gaining a better understanding of ourselves and what has influenced the way we think and make decisions is a powerful tool in allowing us to make more healthy choices in our lives. Through exploring our past and gaining new insight about ourselves, we are empowered to make positive change for the present and future.