Being a therapist means helping someone grow and understand themselves better. It’s about creating a safe space where they can share thoughts and feelings that feel heavy or hard to talk about—especially when those things affect their relationships or daily life. My role is to support, listen, and help them work through challenges so they can feel more in control and at peace.
Creating a safe place starts with being present, listening, and being completely without judgement. I want clients to feel that my side of the camera is in no way superior to theirs; we are in this together. My clients know that I will always be honest and truly care to see them thrive.
I’m just a person. Sometimes awkward, usually funny or sarcastic, always caring (really just the same as I am in session). I love books, music, movies and video games, but most of my time is for my family.
Setting goals is always about allowing the client to take the lead. My task is to help keep these goals realistic and break them down into smaller more achievable parts. I also think the therapy relationship provides accountability, support and encouragement. It helps to know someone is going to ask you next week if you followed through after talking about changes.
It always hurts me to hear people say that being in therapy means something is “wrong” with them. I believe anyone can benefit from having the support and the safe space to work through stressors in their life. Working to better ourselves is a life-long process and therapy can be an important part of that.
Self-care and work-life balance are a must. I believe in making time for hobbies and interests, alone time, and getting enough sleep.
Despite quite a few years of doing this job, I still get nervous meeting new people too. Once you get started though, it will be easier than you think. Saying things out loud will feel like a relief.