Growing up, I experienced lots of pain and suffering. A lot of it was due to substance abuse and addiction in my home. My mom was working hard to make it in a new country as a single parent and had to leave us in the care of family. Unfortunately, our home was very dysfunctional. To top it off I also experienced severe bullying in school. I found myself becoming bitter and angry, and I didn’t like the way that felt. I wanted to feel confident and free from the sadness, pain and loneliness I was feeling.

I took a city bus to a local bookstore and started reading about emotions, the human brain and what causes change. That started my healing journey.

Here’s the special part: I don’t see those painful years as wasted time, but as an important part of my life. My past helps me understand some of what you’re going through when you come to my office. I’ve been there, so I can connect with you better than I ever could had I just read about these things in a book.

I also realized..

Our biggest hurts can be our biggest motivators. Pain can make us stronger while inspiring others to do the same. I believe in transformation from within because I’ve experienced it, and I know you can too.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Professional.

I hold a graduate degree from Capella University in Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. I am trained and certified in treating trauma and mental health disorders. My experience is extensive; I’ve worked with clients in crisis care, substance abuse treatment, facilities for severe and persistent mental illnesses, in marriage and family therapy and have facilitated small group sessions. My special training and years of experience allow me to help you achieve the emotional freedom you are looking for.

Marrying Science and Compassion

I’m able to maintain a careful balance between rigorous scientific practice and compassionate intuitive care. This is unique in my field, even though it shouldn’t be. Unfortunately many mental health professionals get in the way of their clients’ success by prioritizing methods that are overly analytical and burdened by slow painful progress. I prefer results over diagnosis and relief over coping, so you can return to living a healthy, confident life as quickly as possible.