Life is a journey full of transitions that can sometimes bring unexpected change and heavy emotions. Regardless of age, I believe each person has the ability to channel their own inner strengths when equipped with proper support and the coping tools needed to heal. 

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In 2004, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Radford University. Shortly after, I moved to the Lake Norman area, where I currently live with my husband, three children, two dogs, six chickens, and an axolotl. While caring for my young children at home, I earned a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Play Therapy from The University of North Carolina in Charlotte.

 

Being raised in a family-owned business with a passion to help others, I was excited to begin a new practice. Shortly after graduation and with my business partner Alex, we decided to open HealingWorks Counseling in 2021. ​

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I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults with various needs, including mood and personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and those struggling with unresolved trauma. When working with children ages 2 - 10, I use a Child-Centered Play Therapy approach, providing a safe and consistent therapeutic environment in which the child can experience full acceptance, empathy, and understanding while processing their inner experiences and feelings through their natural language of play.

 

I have found that using a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities is most effective when working with adolescents and adults because each person's journey is not only eclectic, but individually unique. ​ 

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I am a Registered Play Therapist, which means I have extensive training and experience working with young children and their families. In addition to being an RPT, I am foundationally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Child-Parent Relationships, and working with high-conflict families.

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I believe the counseling relationship is the heart and soul of effective treatment and long-term healing. I utilize a combination of my education, professional knowledge, and extensive experience to tailor each treatment plan to the needs of each client. 

 

As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, practice owner, and mom of three, my goal is to provide you, your child, and/or family with a safe, therapeutic, and inclusive environment while gently guiding you through our collaborative and therapeutic process.                             

 

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