Before starting my career in mental health, I learned from people in my life what genuine human connection is all about. These examples inspired me to become a counselor. They showed me simply being with someone in their experiences, not judging or fixing it for them, is truly what makes people feel seen and heard. Here is some more information about my journey as a counselor.
I began working as a professional in 2016. My first job was at Family Preservation Services where I performed school-based counseling and outpatient treatment for a walk-in clinic. I also provided care to those in residential facilities suffering from severe mental illness.
I then transitioned to working at Access Family Services, where I continued to see my role as a trauma counselor take shape. I worked primarily with teens and adolescents, helping them navigate oppositional behaviors, build self-esteem, and strengthen social skills through group therapy.
Working at Focus Centers of Asheville helped me broaden my scope to include adults. Afterwards, I opened my private practice in 2022. Building my own practice helped me clarify who I am as a counselor and what work feels meaningful to me: I enjoy helping people resolve difficult experiences and gain a renewed perspective on life.
No matter what setting I have worked in, the same basics have always applied: the success of a therapeutic process depends on the relationship between the client and the therapist. It sounds simple, but when you, as a client, are really putting yourself out there, you want to know the therapist is someone you can trust. I’ve learned this from being on both sides of the couch, and I’d be happy to explore if we’re a good fit.
