Areas of Specialization
Eating Disorders &
Body Image Concerns
I specialize in addressing a broad spectrum of disordered eating issues. These include: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED), Orthorexia, purging disorder, emotional eating, yo-yo dieting, and feeling like food/weight control your life. Other related concerns include body image distress, compulsive exercise, pre-and-post bariatric surgery adjustment, as well as providing support for individuals with loved ones who struggle with eating disorders.
PTSD & Trauma-related Issues
Trauma can exert a far-reaching impact on various facets of an individual's existence, permeating one's thoughts, emotions, physical well-being, ways of relating to others, and behavior. By fostering a safe and secure therapeutic environment and utilizing research-supported trauma treatment, my aim is to guide individuals in understanding this intricate interplay and equipping them with strategies to get "unstuck" from their trauma symptoms. This process empowers them to embark on a journey of healing and thriving.
Other Specialties
​I also have extensive experience in the following areas:
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Depression & Anxiety
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Self-esteem concerns
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Perfectionism
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Relationship challenges
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Life transitions
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Chronic stress
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College/Graduate Students
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Working Professionals
"Let go of who you think you're supposed to be; and embrace who you are" - Brene Brown
Treatment Approach
As we journey through life, we may lose our footing and can become disconnected from ourselves and others. Societal and other external factors can also have an impact on us. Adapting to various life experiences we develop patterns of coping that temporarily serve us, but over time keep us from living our best life. Within an empathic and nonjudgmental space, I collaborate with individuals to uncover what’s getting in the way, reconnect with their innate strengths, and embrace their true selves. While helping clients reaffirm their goals and values, I provide a balance of validation and challenge to empower clients to develop healthier ways of being, establish deeper connections, and live more authentically.
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Evidence-based Treatment​:
I believe in the importance of utilizing evidence-based treatments and interventions to inform my work. This means the specific treatments I utilize have been thoroughly researched and proven to be successful. I discovered that while this approach lends structure and clear goals, it also allows the treatment process to be personalized to match a client's unique needs.
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During my year-long doctoral rotation at The University of Chicago Medical Center I obtained extensive training in the use of CBT-E (Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for the treatment of eating disorders. With its proven efficacy in addressing a range of eating concerns, my utilization of CBT-E extends to fostering a critical awareness of the negative impact of diet culture and weight stigma. I also regularly collaborate with an interdisciplinary treatment team, including medical, psychiatric, and dietetic providers to deliver comprehensive care for clients as when appropriate.
Additionally, desiring a treatment approach known to be effective in addressing PTSD/trauma, I received certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) as well as training in Prolonged Exposure, which are leading evidenced-based treatments in the field for PTSD.
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Finally, I draw from several other research-supported interventions depending on a person’s needs including but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Exposure therapy, as well as compassion-focused and relational therapies.
Types of Services
I work with adults of all ages, with some exceptions given to older teens if primary concern is related to eating/body-image.
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Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions to explore & address factors contributing to your struggles
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Support for families/significant others: Guidance & education for family members dealing with impact of a loved one's eating disorder
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Group therapy: Specifically focused on Eating Disorders - offered 1-2x/year
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Comprehensive treatment: Collaborate with interdisciplinary treatment team to provider holistic treatment approach (e.g., dietitians, medical & psychiatric clinicians, etc.)
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Education/Consultation: Provide presentations to community/organizations on various mental health topics and professional consultation services to other treatment providers
