Why I became a therapist…

My journey of becoming a therapist was anything but direct.  Although the idea of helping people struggling with mental health, intrapersonal, and relational challenges had floated in the back of my mind since I was six. Discussing psychology with my father was a wonderful means of connection and a source of neverending curiosity.

How my sociological perspective helps my clients…

In college I found my first love, Sociology.  I focused on the social construction of mental illness and the social factors creating health inequalities.  I am still very much a sociologist at heart.  It informs how I view the challenges of my clients.  I see individuals as the innermost layer of an onion nested within larger socialism groups and systems. Holding a broader perspective enables me to hold my clients with curiosity, compassion, and without the judgment or pathology that often comes with individual-centric beliefs promulgated by American society.

My mental health journey…

 On a more personal note, I struggled through my own mental health challenges. These impacted how I wanted to spend my professional life. During that time I had two incredible therapists who were instrumental to my healing and inspirational for my career pursuits. Research and publishing papers wasn’t enough anymore. I left my academic life because I wanted to touch people’s lives more directly.

How I care for myself so I can be my best for you…

My self-care rituals have four main elements.  First is spending time in nature.  I grew up on a farm in Vermont and Earth is part of my DNA. Second is trail running with my dogs. I don’t know how I ever enjoyed running on the streets. Third is gardening.  There is always dirt under my nails and there is no such thing as too much color.  Finally, my system is reset and grounded by time with my four four-leggeds: two dogs and two cats.