A Rhode Island-Based Psychotherapist: My Journey
My path to becoming a therapist has been a unique and rewarding one, built on a foundation of advocacy and a deep commitment to helping others. It all started with my psychology degree from the University of Rhode Island, where I first explored the world of research and human behavior.
My work with organizations like Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care and the Rhode Island Family Court opened my eyes to the complexities of the child welfare system. I spent years advocating directly for children, ensuring they had the support and services they needed to thrive. These experiences profoundly shaped my understanding of family dynamics and the importance of compassionate care.
I went on to earn my Master's in Forensic Mental Health Counseling, which equipped me with a unique skill set in areas like crisis evaluations, mental health evaluations, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and various screening measures. I applied this knowledge through my work with Brown University, the Rhode Island Family Court, Boston Public Schools, and Perspectives Corporation, providing support that was both structured and deeply personal.
Living in the smallest state has taught me that our hopes and dreams are far bigger than our 1,034 square miles I exist in. While growing up in a close-knit community where “everybody knows everybody” has its challenges, it has also fostered the profound value of seeing each client as a unique individual, even as we are all interconnected.
Beyond my professional training, my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in my personal journey. Ryder, my stubborn, playful, brilliant, loyal, and loving Miniature Australian Shepherd has shown me the power of unconditional love and the importance of living in the moment—a lesson many of us seek daily. Through my travels, I've had the profound opportunity to immerse myself in different cultures. Despite our differences, the human experience of struggle, resilience, and hope is truly universal. In a similar way, my passion for the EDM community has introduced me to the core principles of Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect (PLUR), reinforcing my belief in radical acceptance and human connection. I am so fortunate and forever grateful to have had these eye-opening experiences.
Life can be messy, and it’s okay to not have all the answers. My own personal understanding of the struggles my clients face did not just come with my clinical training. Navigating my mental health journey—including relationship challenges, family conflict, and my own diagnoses like ADHD—has taught me firsthand what it feels like to seek professional help, to be vulnerable, and to find the courage to begin healing. These experiences aren’t just a part of my story; they are the foundation of my practice. They fuel my commitment to creating a space where you can be truly heard and understood, free of judgment.
Today, my passion lies in outpatient therapy, where I am dedicated to helping adults, adolescents, children and families within an amazing group practice. Everyone deserves a safe and confidential space to explore their feelings and create positive change. I hope you join me as I continue my professional and personal journey on this site, through blogging, creating easy-to-use therapeutic materials, and sharing my insight on various important topics.
