About ME

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a grounded, thoughtful approach to my work. I draw from psychotherapy and experiential therapy to help people build clearer communication, strengthen decision-making, and create meaningful change in individual, couples, and family settings.

My work centers on couples and relationship dynamics, including communication breakdowns, conflict, trust issues, intimacy concerns, codependency, and navigating major life transitions. I also support individuals and families around anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, self-esteem, mood disorders, peer relationships, divorce, and LGBTQ+ concerns. Alongside my clinical work, I have experience leading psycho-educational workshops, providing crisis counseling, and offering supervision and consultation.

Outside the therapy room, I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs, listening to great podcasts, traveling, and enjoying a really good meal cooked by someone else. I also love unplugging with a relaxing round of golf, where I practice patience, acceptance, and letting go of outcomes I can’t control. I value balance, connection, and the small moments that help keep life grounded both in and out of the office. 

Charcoal is a Labrador Retriever rescued through PAWS Chicago. Now retired and enjoying his well-earned senior status, he brings years of experience from his earlier work at a therapeutic school, where he supported students through calm presence, steady companionship, and the occasional well-timed nap. He’s completed extensive training with Sit Means Sit Chicago and The Go Team Therapy, Crisis and Airport Dogs, Inc., and is licensed and insured with CGC, CGCA, CGCU, Therapy Dog, Airport Stress Buster, and Crisis Therapy Dog certifications.

These days, Charcoal may try to pop into sessions from time to time. While officially retired, he still likes to check in and make sure everyone is doing okay. He’s continuing to work on professional boundaries and understanding why not every session is about him, but his calm energy and quiet support are always welcome.

Marvel has fully embraced his role as a bit of a lovable rascal. He’s not exactly an Avenger. Think more anti-hero energy. Curious, opinionated, and still figuring things out as he goes. A rescue with a big personality, Marvel is very much a work in progress.

STAY TUNED. Once he grows up a bit more, Marvel will begin training as a therapy dog. In the meantime, you may see him make an occasional pop-up appearance during sessions and possibly hear from him too, as he can be a little vocal when he feels his thoughts need to be shared.