Life is beautiful; however, we all face hardships and endure suffering. How we process and navigate those difficulties determines how we respond to others, their reaction to us, and our quality of life. We long for intimate relationships and to be one another’s support, but in the messiness and downfall of life, we can lose our way and our authentic selves. Unhealthy coping habits can develop, and toxic patterns can take over our lives without us noticing them until it’s too late. While vulnerability to a stranger can be daunting, it is courageous and life-changing. When we share painful experiences and life’s difficulties, a light is shined on the unspoken or hidden, and thoughts and emotions are acknowledged and processed.
As a counselor, I offer a warm, engaging, empathic, and genuine approach to the therapeutic relationship. I believe in the holistic approach, where counseling techniques address the whole person and their specific needs. I aim to have a safe place to talk comfortably about what is distressing for you and work together to improve your well-being.
I want to walk alongside you to guide and support you. You are the authority in your life. I am here to help you with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identifying unresolved traumas, grief/loss, and mood instability. Change, growth, and healing happen when we honor and understand our story!
My person-centered approach encourages being authentic and taking responsibility for your life and relationships. In addition, I strongly incorporate Psychodynamic and Existential therapy, Attachment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems. I also continue my education in different modalities that address the mind-body connection, well-being (not only the absence of disease but thriving in life), and healing trauma at a deeper level.
Northern Virginia has been home for over 30 years. I have enjoyed living in this area immensely with my husband, two grown daughters, and a Goldendoodle who keeps me on my toes.
I work under the supervision of Andreea Solfavi, LPC and Isabel Kirk, LPC
