Specialties
Specializing in counseling for teens, young adults, and adults who identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or have religious trauma or want to integrate religion/spirituality.
Why those communities?
LGBTQ+, Neurodivergent, Chronically Ill, & Religion/SpiritualityI am a queer, trans-masc, neurodivergent, chronically ill therapist, so my specialties are centered around things that impact my everyday life as well. Although I have not walked in your shoes, I believe I have a deeper understanding of the challenges and effects that come with being LGBTQIA+, trans, neurodivergent and disabled in our world today.
I have a large Pastoral, religious, and spiritual background, including my Bachelor degree in Religious Studies and my Master degree in Pastoral Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy integrating religion and spirituality into session, when appropriate, to help clients find purpose and meaning through their suffering, pain, and difficulties. I am also trained in working through and helping those heal from Religious trauma/hurt.
Approaches
Utmost, practice a Rogerian, Person-Centered approach, because I believe connection, relationship, support, and nonjudgmental acceptance are key for a healthy therapeutic relationship. I also draw from various other modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I am DBT skills trained, and often teach many DBT skills to clients. I am IFS informed and often use an IFS lens with clients to work through trauma. I am also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS). My background in pastoral counseling also allows me to use a spiritual lens for clients who are interested.
Religious Trauma
Religious and spiritual traditions can offer deep connection, meaning, and comfort. However, when those same systems become sources of judgment, exclusion, or abuse, they can leave emotional and spiritual wounds. When the religion we rely on for support and strength actually causes us harm, we can experience trauma. Religious trauma is real, and affects more than most people realize.
Religious trauma can arise from controlling, shame-based, or abusive religious environments. It may lead to anxiety, guilt, identity confusion, or difficulty trusting others. These experiences can shape how we view ourselves, our place in the world, and our connection to a Higher Power. Religious trauma isn’t rare. It’s just often hidden.
I strive to help clients find personal meaning for their pain and suffering, by deconstruction, healing, and reclaiming their own values and voice. My approach honors one's personal experiences, emotional wellbeing, and the desire many people feel to reconnect with a Higher Power on their own terms.