Kids don’t have big behaviors on purpose.

Whether they’re melting down, shutting down, or pushing back, it’s almost always because something inside feels too big, too confusing, or too overwhelming for them to handle alone. Many of the children I meet are carrying more than they can express — intense emotions, perfectionism, or exhaustion from feeling different in a world that wasn’t built for their rhythm.

Supporting kids through these moments is the heart of my work.

I’ve spent nearly thirty years working with children — first as a Montessori educator, then as a School Counselor, and now as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I’ve taught, supported, and advocated for kids ages two through eighteen, and I’ve walked beside families navigating a wide variety of challenges: anxiety, big emotions, learning differences, neurodivergence, school struggles, family stress, and the growing pains of adolescence.

I work especially well with children who feel things deeply, kids who process the world differently, and kids who thrive with a more flexible, creative, hands-on approach. My style is warm, engaging, and deeply child-centered. Kids know when an adult genuinely likes them, so building trust is the heart of everything I do.

As a former school counselor, collaboration is second nature to me.

I’ve spent years working closely with teachers, administrators, and specialists, and I regularly support parents through 504 plans, IEP meetings, and the process of understanding their child’s learning needs. I believe parents deserve to feel informed and empowered, and I make sure you know what we’re working on and why.

In my therapy sessions, I utilize play therapy, DBT skills, person-centered counseling, creative tools, and problem-solving to help your child express themselves, understand their emotions, and build skills that will support them long after therapy ends.

In addition to my clinical work, I am a Practical Instructor in the Counseling Department at Wake Forest University, helping train the next generation of counselors — a role that keeps me connected to current research and grounded in what makes therapy effective for real kids and families.

When I’m not with kids or teaching, I’m probably outside walking or kayaking, doing yoga, reading a great book, or spending time with my family and our dog.

If you're looking for support for your child, your family, or yourself, I’d love to offer a free 15-minute consultation call to see if I’m the right fit.