I am a licensed clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist. I work with adults, couples, families, and teens who are struggling with relationships, symptoms of anxiety and depression, life changes, and trauma. My training is in both social work and family systems, so I take a strengths-based approach to supporting clients who are navigating conflict, reactivity, low moods, and high stress. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy) based on my experience and training, and I use this therapeutic approach with both individuals and couples. Also, I am trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy through Level 3.
For the last several years I have lived abroad with my husband, a Foreign Service officer; we recently returned to northern Virginia for his final Foreign Service tour. While abroad, I specialized in teletherapy with expats in the Foreign Service or serving at international schools or NGOs. Now that we are back in the US, I'm looking forward to seeing clients in person again!
I became a psychotherapist in midlife after an earlier career as a journalist and professional writer. I graduated from the University of Louisville (Ky.) in 2010 with a master's in social work, specializing in marriage and family therapy. I first worked as an in-home therapist for families who needed extra support for Louisville's community mental health center. Later, I became an outpatient therapist for a Louisville social services agency and had a small private practice.
In my private time, I enjoy reading, swimming, visits with friends, and walks with Henry, our dachshund mix rescue pup. I also make regular visits to see our two young adult children, who live in their hometown of Louisville, Ky.
Currently I work Monday and Friday afternoons and evenings out of the Arlington office. I also provide teletherapy.