about me
When I started therapy for the first time, I told my therapist that I needed to talk about the fact that she was a complete stranger who I was paying so that she'd "care" about me and listen. I didn't trust her, and why would I? I didn't even know her. And to be honest, I was deeply suspicious of this whole therapy thing. That said, I wanted help. Luckily, she understood. And my work with her is what eventually inspired me to become a therapist myself.
In therapy with me, you can expect to explore what is going on inside you and to develop curiosity about why. If you have a tendency to beat yourself up about your true feelings, your negative thoughts, your regretful choices, you can expect to experience both compassion and genuine interest in what might be underneath your tendency to self-criticize. Together we will ask questions and make connections that help you develop greater acceptance and self-love.
What you won't experience in therapy with me is a therapist who sits back and nods—leaving you feeling alone and slightly broke. Or a therapist who can't tolerate silence and jumps in to solve your problems before you've even finished your sentence. I believe that therapy is a collaboration between two committed souls who are both highly motivated and engaged. I work best with people who want to learn about themselves and their relationships so badly that they are bursting. I love and welcome your internal wisdom, and your hunger to understand more.
I believe that therapy can work in two powerful ways: 1) We will hold space for honest self-exploration and inquiry about your relationships—leading to greater awareness and sense of freedom. 2) We may also look at things that have left you feeling unlovable in the past, with the hope that you can experience greater love and acceptance towards yourself—even when all your cards are on the table.
Therapy with me is a gentle process that moves at your pace. I will call you on your stuff or offer an alternative viewpoint to consider—if and when you want my feedback. I will also listen closely and try to understand your unique experience in the world. I believe that feeling understood is the bedrock of our work together.
education and training
L.C.S.W. in Clinical Practice with Individuals and Families, Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Training, American Institute for Psychoanalysis/Karen Horney Clinic
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Training, Level I: Training in Affect Dysregulation, Survival Defenses, and Traumatic Memory
Hakomi Mindful Somatic Psychotherapy, Professional Comprehensive Training, Level I & II, Hakomi Institute
Brief Strategic Family Therapy Training, Brief Strategic Family Therapy Institute
Magna Cum Laude B.A. in Philosophy, Barnard College, Columbia University