Adjustment Issues
Have you experienced a major life change recently? Changing jobs/schools, the end of a relationship/marriage, a recent move, etc? Change is the only constant in life, yet one of the most challenging things to acclimate to. We often remain stuck in old beliefs and behaviors in an effort to resist change, and this makes the transition that much more difficult. Stepping out of our comfort zone requires effort, and sometimes it's easier to stick with what's familiar and predictable rather than embrace the uncertainty of what's to come. My goal is to assist you in making these transitions as easy as possible and equipping you with healthy ways of coping with these changes.
Anger Management
Anger is a common emotion that surfaces as a result of vulnerabilities that are uncomfortable to acknowledge. Anger can be intimidating to others, which keeps them at a safe distance. Managing anger can be challenging because it is typically accompanied by a physiological response like an adrenaline rush. Some of us bottle up our anger for a long time until we simply can't take it anymore and explode. Others are passive aggressive in their attempts to communicate anger. There are so many forms that anger can take, and my goal is assist you in identifying your anger "style," exploring where it's originating, and developing healthy ways of coping with it.
Anxiety
Are you constantly thinking about the "what ifs" in life? Do you expect the worst to happen? Are you often irritable and on edge? These are all signs of anxiety and the negative thought processes that create those anxious feelings. Our minds create these thoughts in an attempt to protect ourselves from re-experiencing disappointment, rejection, etc, but these thoughts are no longer serving a functional purpose. The good news is, by changing our thought processes, we can change the emotions associated with them. This is called Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and it is a form of treatment I have extensive experience with. We don't have to go through life "waiting for the next shoe to drop," so to speak. I can help alleviate these feelings.
Balance and Personal Growth
The use of technology has created an environment in which we're always "accessible." We're constantly tuned into our phones, computers, etc. and attempting to multi-task, yet sometimes we need to unplug and focus on our own personal well-being and growth. My goal is to assist you in creating balance and making yourself a priority, without experiencing guilt or worry. We are unable to function at our best and help others if we are struggling to take care of ourselves. We often spend so much time worrying about the future or ruminating about the past, that we are not present in the moment, and we miss out on important experiences.
Depression
Have you been feeling unmotivated lately? Maybe you're having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning? Have you lost interest in some of the things you used to enjoy? These symptoms point toward depression and the feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and helplessness that can accompany them. I aim to provide a safe, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment that will aide you in exploring the origin of your emotions while providing empathy and emotional validation. We will challenge the negative beliefs you have about yourself, the world, and others and create a more positive mindset so you can marshall the resources necessary to make changes. You don't deserve to feel this way, and I can help.
Relationship Issues
Relationships are complicated. We all have different styles of communicating, different "love languages," and different needs in general. We often make assumptions about what our partner is thinking or feeling and we never get clarification. We then operate in accordance with the belief that this is true. Maybe you're questioning whether or not your relationship is healthy. Maybe you need some assistance in setting better boundaries. Maybe you're single and wondering why none of your relationships have worked out. Whatever the case may be, I can help you navigate this rocky terrain.
Education
Vanderbilt University & The Adler School of Professional Psychology
License
License No. 180.008355
Years in practice
13 years