This is always the hard part, finding a counselor that feels right for you, and the initial discomfort in meeting them for the first time. I will endeavor to make this part as seamless as possible while striving to see the world through your eyes. We often have the idea that if we don't solve our problems alone we have somehow failed. I believe that we can thrive when we are able to discuss our problems with someone we trust. My hope is that I can provide a space where you feel comfortable discussing your concerns. You've come this far, all that's left is to take those first few, difficult steps. Individuals - I work on the premise that no one is "broken", "damaged", or has "something wrong with them". Of course we are not perfect, and the way we think about ourselves matters more than you might realize. I blend encouragement with honesty and directness about the client's role in their own struggles. Couples - Our "normal" often clashes with our partners' so merging our two different worlds can be difficult. I will work to understand the triggers each partner responds to and explore where those originated so you can better understand one another. There are no "bad guys" in the couple's process. I strive to make the couples environment safe for both. Similar to my work with individuals, I preach ownership of your role in your life/relationship. Teens/tweens - I find that these ages want to be heard by their parents in a way that they have not been growing up, through no fault of the parents. Puberty brings increased awareness of the world for kids and I work at allowing them to explore what that means for them. This may not look like talk therapy (depending on the age), though playing games while talking with a trained professional can aid a budding adult in feeling more comfortable with themselves.