I work with children and adolescents who are navigating challenges at home, in school, or in their relationships with themselves, peers, or caregivers. Many of the young people I support are coping with traumatic experiences, inpatient stays, suicidal thoughts, or self-injurious behaviors. In our work together, we focus on building healthy coping skills, strengthening self-esteem, and improving connection with others.

My therapeutic style is kind and supportive with an emphasis on building a therapeutic relationship that will allow children and adolescents to feel seen and heard. I pull from several therapeutic modalities depending on what a patient needs in that session or for the long term support of the goals they want to work towards. I rely heavily on trauma informed care and playful engagement to help children feel safe and supported. Parents often report that after working with me their children are better able to communicate about their feelings, recognize the early warning signs of emotional dysregulation, better cope with stressors both at home and at school, utilize healthier coping skills, and have healthier relationships with parents, siblings, and friends.

I have experience working with families and youth from a wide range of backgrounds, from early childhood through young adulthood. I also collaborate with caregivers and other professionals when needed to advocate for the child’s well-being. Growing up today comes with real challenges, and parenting can feel just as overwhelming. If you are looking for a therapist who is supportive, caring, and also direct when needed, I would be happy to connect and see if we are a good fit.

Credentials

Education

Master of Science in Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, 2007

Personal Interests

I am a big kid at heart. I love getting on the floor with kiddos and playing a brutal game of Uno No Mercy or Bananagrams. In my free time I love to travel, go see movies (anything but Horror), go out to eat with friends, and paint.

In-network and Self Pay

Insurance Accepted

  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna/Evernorth
  • Employers Health Network
  • Partners Direct Health
  • Sana Benefits
  • Seton Health Plan
  • UnitedHealthcare/Optum

Self Pay

$180
Self-pay and out-of-pocket session costs for clients without insurance coverage for mental health services.

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialities

ADHD, ASD, Attachment Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Self Harm

Expertise

  • Academic Issues
  • ADD / ADHD
  • Adoption
  • Anger Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment Trauma or Insecurity
  • Autism
  • Boundaries / Assertiveness
  • Childhood Abuse or Neglect
  • Conflict with Friends
  • Depression
  • Development Disorders
  • Family Conflict
  • Gender Identity
  • Gender Identity (LGBTQ)
  • Impulse Control Issues
  • Learning Disability
  • Loss or Grief
  • Perfectionism
  • Personal Growth
  • Self-Esteem / Negative Self-Talk
  • Self-Harm
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Sexual Identity
  • Sexual Identity (LGBTQ)
  • Shyness / High Sensitivity
  • Social Anxiety

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Attachment-based
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Mindfulness-Based Interventions
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Play Therapy
  • Sand Tray Therapy
  • Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Locations

Steck Office

location_on8140 N Mopac Expressway
Building 4, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78759
Directions on google map

Client Focus

  • Age Groups Served: Children (6+), Preteen, Teen, Young Adult (18-24)
  • Participant Types: Individuals
  • Language Spoken: English

My work is about helping patients feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to grow, and equipped with the tools they need to navigate life more confidently.