COUNSELING

" Things change as they are discovered."

-Joel Latner

Theoretical Orientation and Philosophy

Statement of Theoretical Orientation and Philosophy

My therapeutic orientation is grounded in an integrative approach that combines elements of Gestalt therapy, art therapy, attachment theory, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care, aiming to promote deepening self-awareness and holistic wellness. Drawing from Gestalt therapy, I believe that fostering an awareness of one’s experiences, thoughts, and emotions, encouraging individuals to fully embrace their existence and own their actions and feelings, can be transformative in the healing process. This approach not only enhances self-understanding but also empowers clients to actively participate in their healing process.

Incorporating art therapy offers a unique opportunity for expression and self-discovery, allowing clients to explore and articulate their inner experiences through creative expression. This non-verbal approach can enrich the therapeutic journey, aiding clients with gaining and maintaining contact with their emotional experiences and increasing insight into life patterns. I utilize attachment theory to help understand an individual’s attachment style and to shed light on their interpersonal dynamics and behaviors. This aids me in guiding individualized therapeutic interventions toward nurturing healthier relationships and enhancing emotional security. I integrate mindfulness practices throughout my approach, encouraging a non-judgmental, here-and-now awareness. This helps individuals develop a deeper connection with themselves, improving emotional regulation and resilience. I recognize the profound impact of trauma on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health and emphasize empowerment and respect in the healing process through trauma-informed approaches.

My theoretical orientation integrates complementary approaches, emphasizing individuals' innate capacity to heal and grow. By providing a compassionate and holistic therapeutic framework, I hope to support clients in navigating their journeys toward healing and self-discovery, grounded in a deep commitment to awareness, creativity, secure relationships, mindful presence, and trauma-informed care.

Counseling Experience

My professional journey in the field of counseling and art therapy started in 2010 when I entered Seton Hill University’s Master of Arts degree in Art Therapy with a Specialization in Counseling. Even before graduating in 2013, I immersed myself in a career that is as challenging as it is rewarding. My work experience, particularly within inpatient and outpatient substance use disorder treatment centers, has provided me with a unique perspective on the nature of addictions and the often co-occurring mental health challenges.

Specializing in addiction treatment, I've developed experience in treating all aspects of the recovery process. My experience extends to addressing eating disorders, offering a compassionate and informed approach that respects the intricate relationship between one's body image, self-esteem, and overall mental health. In dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder, I have utilized a variety of therapeutic techniques individualized to each person’s needs, facilitating stability and fostering resilience.

I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group settings in the past. My current practice focuses primarily on adult individual sessions. The therapeutic modalities I am familiar with include CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, and person-centered therapies, though I feel most comfortable practicing through a trauma-informed Gestalt art therapy approach.

Trauma and grief are specialty areas that hold particular significance in my practice. Leveraging the transformative power of art therapy, I've guided clients through their healing journeys, acknowledging their pain and facilitating a creative process that helps them express the inexpressible. My aim is always to provide a safe space where individuals can get in deeper contact with their emotions and build awareness around their needs.

Professional Goals

I am committed to strengthening my skills and deepening my therapeutic impact through continued education, supervision, and opportunities to refine my practice. As a lifelong learner, I plan to enroll in the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh's two-year training program. This program will offer immersion in Gestalt therapy methodologies and will aid in broadening and solidifying my therapeutic practice in integrated Gestalt Art Therapy. Additionally, I am dedicated to supplementing my practice of trauma-informed care, placing a strong emphasis on the incorporation of attachment theory, which I believe is fundamental in understanding and mending the unfinished business of relational wounds. I aim to expand the use of mindfulness strategies and creative interventions to help my clients build resilience and foster a deeper sense of presence and self-awareness. Each step and educational pursuit is strategically chosen to not only fulfill my professional aspirations but also to provide the most effective, empathetic, and evidence-based care to my clients.

Demonstration of Counseling Skills

Read a Case Study: Counseling in Action

Example Intake Note

Example Treatment Plan

Example Progress Note

Example Discharge Note

Professional Organizations

I am a proud member of the following:

American Counseling Association
Pennsylvania Counseling Association
Greater Pittsburgh Counseling Association
Association for Counselor Education & Supervision
American Art Therapy Association
Pennsylvania Art Therapy Association
Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council