I have always liked working with and helping people. Over time, I came to value understanding the aspects that shape our personalities. I have come to important realizations about myself with the help of people in my life, and I now want to facilitate that process for others through psychotherapy. Everyone deserves to be heard and to have a chance to understand themselves. Therapy can assist them on that journey. 

1. What attracted you to being a psychotherapist?

Questions

I take a non-judgmental approach when working with clients, and am genuinely interested in what they have to say. I like to let clients take the lead, in hopes that they can come to realizations on their own. Building rapport is important for clients to be comfortable meeting with me and feel excited about coming to therapy. Therapy really is a two-way street, in that clients can teach me many things, just as I can teach them.

2. How would you describe your approach with your clients? 

“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind, always.” Robin Williams

There are many different variations of this quote said by many different people, but the gist of it is this: Everyone deserves kindness. We have no idea what hardships may be plaguing someone’s life at the moment, so we should be kind to everyone. Something as small as a smile to a stranger at the grocery store may be the best part of their day.

3. What's your favorite quote about mental health? 

Client stories and hardships always surprise me. Going along with the quote above, I really don’t know what people are going through. I am often surprised by the struggles clients have experienced, as well as their resilience despite those struggles. Hearing these stories and knowing that clients are persisting and trying to improve their lives gives me so much hope. I never knew I could be impacted by other people’s success and resilience so much. 

4. What has surprised you the most about being a psychotherapist?