I have been practicing DBT since 2015, working primarily with adults and adolescents struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder, complex trauma, disordered eating, and high-risk, self-harming, and suicidal behaviors. As a lifelong believer that everyone’s behaviors can be understood in context, I was initially drawn to DBT due to its emphasis on validation alongside behavior change. Seeing the impact that DBT has had on my clients over the years has only strengthened my commitment to delivering this treatment as adherently as possible, and making it as accessible as possible.

People living with disorders of emotion dysregulation often have suffered numerous traumas and invalidations throughout their lives. In fact, these adverse experiences often contribute directly to the development of such disorders in the first place. These experiences could stem from family of origin dynamics, romantic relationships, childhood trauma, systemic discrimination and racism, invalidation of invisible disabilities or identities, and many other sources.

My goal as a DBT therapist is to create a space that is validating and accepting of folks wherever they are starting, helps make sense of harmful behaviors, and supports clients in learning the skills needed to change unwanted behaviors and reach their goals. Above all, I aim to take a validating, collaborative, and straightforward approach. It can be incredibly challenging to examine our own behavioral tendencies and commit to change. I strive to create a space that is safe, respectful, and candid, so that clients can approach this difficult work with the strategies, skills, and support they need.