I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in children, adolescents, and families. Psychologists are extensively trained in both diagnostics — identifying disorders — and therapy, as well as how to use one to guide the other. I gather information from all areas of life to understand the whole person, who is not defined by ‘the problem’ that brought them to services.
I am trained in a variety of approaches, but I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while incorporating Interpersonal Therapy to help clients change what they can control (i.e., their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors) and have better relationships with those around them. I use play and humor to approach the problem in a relaxing setting at the child’s pace. I work to help people find balance and acceptance while making changes toward their next goals for growth.
I particularly enjoy working with those with anxiety and mood difficulties, and have extensive experience working with those with a history traumatic experiences including abuse. I have helped many children and teens see positive changes through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), two of the gold-standard treatments for youth and families who have experienced trauma. I also really enjoy working with adults impacted by difficult trauma, typically using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). My use of evidence-based treatment models helps us both to stay focused on helping you make the changes you want.
Having worked in school systems as a certified school psychologist, I am able to provide practical support to the family and team of teachers to help kids improve their functioning in school.
I received undergraduate training at the College of Charleston (B.S., B.A.) and graduate training at the Georgia School of Professional Psychology’s American Psychological Association (APA)-approved clinical doctoral program (M.A. – 2006, Psy.D. – 2009). I received specialized training in school psychology at the University of Georgia’s APA- and NASP-approved school psychology doctoral program. I have previously worked in community mental health, hospital-affiliated clinic, and residential treatment settings, as well as public schools.