I’m a board-certified art therapist and the founder of Come As You Are Art Therapy. In therapy, I encourage individuals to utilize art as another means of communicating. I believe that art tells the truth! Part of the reason why I am drawn to this work is the deep, raw connection that can be experienced with another- human to human. Being seen for who we are authentically can be both terrifying and liberating. Although I strive to meet people wherever they’re at in their lives, I also gently challenge my clients. (Hence the term growing pains.) I approach this work with integrity, and believe that otherwise, I’d only be doing half my job. Essentially, through a collaborative effort of therapist & client, I assist people in getting where they would like to be on their journeys.

Although I enjoy working with teens and adults (individually as well as couples), I work well with clients who may struggle with low self-esteem, co-dependency, a sense of belonging or identity, or feelings of shame and unworthiness. Specific populations include those who have ever struggled with disordered eating, addictive behaviors, or who have a history of trauma. For those who have ever been deemed “too sensitive” or “too much”, not to worry- I got you. My aim is to help people empower themselves and finally TAKE UP SPACE, living in alignment with what is true for them. Yes, I have the unbridled spirit of a romantic, and ideally, my wish is for everyone to feel validated, seen, and heard. However, from personal experience, I know that this is not always a felt reality. In my life as well as my work with clients, I do my best (yes, I’m human too) to keep it real… with a little added flare!

My past experiences as a birth doula supporting survivors of abuse and their families, those diagnosed with eating disorders, as well as my own struggles of utilizing my voice, have informed how I approach this work. It’s my desire to continue to be an advocate for those around me and to do so through the power of creative expression.

When not conducting sessions with clients, you can find me slingin’ dough in the kitchen (a.k.a. baking), dancing salsa, singing (poorly) to old soul records, being outside in nature, painting, telling ‘dad jokes’, practicing being kinder to myself, and spending time with loved ones.

Credentials

• BA in Studio Art from Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, NC

• MA in Counseling and Art Therapy from Southwestern College in Santa Fe, NM

• ATR-BC, accredited by the National Art Therapy Credentials Board

• Professional member of the Australian, New Zealand, and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA)