Welcome and thank you for taking the time to check out my bio. For the past 20 years, I have had the honor to work with courageous individuals who have made the commitment to make positive lasting changes in their lives. The last five years of my practice has been dedicated to working with First Responders and their families.
While the average individual experiences 2 traumatic events a year, First Responders are exposed to 5 to 6 per shift. Many factors contribute to whether or not first responders will develop PTS. According to SAMSHA, 1 in 3 First Responders will develop PTS. I have found that first responders benefit from a collaborative holistic treatment approach. Thus, my practice is guided by the neurobiology of trauma, focusing on how our mind/bodies are disrupted by trauma. I offer several different trauma informed treatment modalities, such as animal assisted therapy, Brainspotting, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, to name a few.
Our bodies literally store trauma - its called "cellular memory." When we store trauma without fully processing and healing it, the trauma becomes unconscious and we develop unconscious patterns of behavior to protect ourselves, such as substance abuse, eating disorders, overworking, people pleasing, etc. These patterns are repeated on autopilot until we consciously break the cycle through love, awareness, and safety.
I believe that each and every individual is truly unique and deserves to live a full and purpose driven life. We have all have had life experiences that have changed us, for the good and the bad. The core of neurobiology of trauma is that healing and change takes place with authentic connection and a positive environment. We all need someone to hear us, see us, and be there for us with compassion and grace.
According to Bessel van der Kolk, "Being validated by feeling heard and seen is a precondition for feeling safe, which is critical when we explore the dangerous territory of trauma and abandonment."
I am committed to hold a safe space for my clients by using compassion, humor and integrity in all of our interactions. In sessions, I support and guide my clients in finding their inner wisdom to make choices that are in alignment with their personal truths. I will encourage you, support you, and challenge you to be the best version of yourself.
My promise to you is to support you in your journey back to your true self, to trust your inner wisdom, and to always hold a safe space for you. I look forward to working with you and support you on your journey.