As a therapist…

I’m passionate about helping clients reach their goals and spend time well beyond the therapy “hour” to do so. In addition to specific case consultation (with clients’ permission), I belong to several professional consultation groups that meet on a regular basis, ensuring the work we do together has additional “expert eyes”. Extra ongoing education and research also helps me stay informed of new and evolving developments in our field. I also invest in ongoing private consulting with another trauma specialist to help ensure clients are receiving the best care possible.

Confidentiality is of the utmost importance. Lafayette is still “small” enough that even when I have clients’ permission to consult with other therapists or providers, I still do so anonymously (without any identifying information such as name, occupation, or special circumstances).

My style as a therapist is to be very genuine, warm, and compassionate. I strive to create a safe environment where it you can explore difficult topics and grow. I have developed a knack for being gentle, yet direct to maximize therapeutic gains.

A bit about my educational background:

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette where I graduated Summa Cum Laude, was awarded the Outstanding Graduate of the Year Award for the College of Liberal Arts and earned an Honors Baccalaureate Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I then earned my Master’s Degree in Counselor Education from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I have nearly 12 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor working with adolescents and adults and treating anxiety, OCD, trauma, and perfectionism.

my close friends and family would say…

That I am “full of personality”, and easy to talk to. I am an “ambivert”, thriving in small social settings filled with deep, thought provoking conversations. My husband says that his favorite thing about me is my “joie de vivre” (joy of life), which I can see in our son and two dogs as well (he says it’s contagious). I get excited when faced with a challenge, and I am always up for new things. I am also very practical, and rationally minded. The combination of these characteristics enables me to help clients “see” things differently, balancing their emotional and rational minds.

I celebrate successes with you! Because it’s my job to challenge you and hold you accountable, I’m also your biggest advocate. It’s not uncommon for me to show my excitement when things start changing and improving.

I also recognize that I am human too. I have participated in various types of therapy for various reasons on and off over the years as a client myself in an effort to practice what I preach, and ensure that my personal things don’t interfere with my professional work. I find that ongoing therapy enriches my life in ways that friends and family cannot. It provides me with an objective ally, a sounding board for things others may not understand, and an intentional place to more deeply ponder my personal growth.