I am a New York University-trained therapist who believes that when we can better understand ourselves and how we move through the world, we are more equipped to foster our own and others’ healing. I take into account patients’ interconnected web of identities and experiences that inform their ways of being in and relating to the world around them. Therapy doesn’t exist in a vacuum and I understand efforts to create change within ourselves, our relationships, our families, our communities, and society at large as inextricably tied. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment in which to help individuals, couples, and families disrupt unhelpful beliefs, patterns, and systems that are no longer beneficial rather than further perpetuate them.
Like any relationship in our lives, the connection between a therapist and patient takes intentionality and effort. I previously worked with older adults, many of whom were housebound and struggling with loneliness and isolation during the pandemic. I was particularly inspired by the depth of connection we forged. I witnessed these individuals open up when having their thoughts and interests, hopes and dreams, and reflections and reminiscences about the past, as well as their health and living needs, actively listened to and prioritized. Through these connections, I came to further value the importance of relationship-building in therapy. I am dedicated to collaborating with patients to discover together what growth looks like for them so that their needs, wants, and aspirations can take shape.
I also helped people who were dealing with severe mental illness and substance use navigate not only these challenges, but love, friendship, and building and maintaining relationships. Many highlighted how essential it was for them to create resilient trust-based relationships with partners, family members, and friends for emotional support and accountability. I also supported these patients to set limits with those who may be, intentionally or unintentionally, disturbing the environment necessary for recovery. I take these experiences with me in helping individuals, couples, and families form stronger, healthier relationships, as well as establish boundaries with people in their lives that may be hurtful.
In addition to my work as a therapist, I am also a pianist and have worked with several arts organizations, including Carnegie Hall and a nonprofit that empowers musicians and youth in the Democratic Republic of the Congo through music education, performance, and mentorship. I see therapy as a natural extension of what I love about music: it brings people together and can be a beautiful catalyst for deepening connections to oneself and others. I understand therapy as a creative process in which a patient and I partner together to build something new. Like creating anything in collaboration with another, this requires active listening, patience, and curiosity.