“Be at ease, and feel completely at home. And above all, do not be so ashamed of yourself, for that is the cause of everything” (From Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov). To me, this suggests that one’s way of being with oneself may become the foundation of nearly everything else: how one loves, speaks, avoids, performs, and suffers.

For me, successful therapy enables healthy and mutual exploration of intimate topics and circumstances. When recounting or divulging these things, what does this process feel like? What makes you feel burdened or overwhelmed with difficult feelings? What is liberating to feel or to share? Empowering? In this exchange, we’ll work toward individualized and adaptive visions that embrace these facets as a normal part of life. I incorporate therapeutic approaches such as existential psychotherapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques to fortify this journey.

While psychology is my primary area of expertise, I also have a strong foundation in neuroscience. I minored in neuroscience at the University of Minnesota, and that background remains an important part of how I understand emotional struggle, behavior, and change. When it feels helpful, I incorporate neuroeducation into our work so that confusing thoughts, emotions, or reactions can feel less mysterious and more understandable. Sometimes our brains seem to work against us, or pull us away from the person we want to be. By making sense of these patterns together, your inner experience may begin to feel less alien, more manageable, and more open to change.

I work with clients from all walks of life and welcome a wide range of concerns. I am especially well-suited to those struggling with anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, identity concerns, or a sense of disconnection from themselves. I aim to meet each person with warmth, curiosity, and care.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy reading Dostoevsky, competitive bodybuilding, iced Americanos when it's 30 below zero, trying new restaurants (especially if I’ve seen them on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives), and helping my partner find fitting synonyms as she writes her second fantasy novel.

Outside of these familiar hobbies, I value novelty, spontaneity, and enthusiasm. My work as a server over the past three years has allowed me to live out those values through constant engagement with new people, personalities, and a variety of perspectives.

During my internship I will work with clients as a therapist, and group facilitator. I will also assist clients get connected with services such as different levels of care and applying for benefits they may be eligible for.

I am currently a candidate for a Master's Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, and am working under the licensed supervision of Joel Grostphan, M.A., LICSW.