By creating a compassionate, non-judgmental therapeutic environment, I help your teen safely explore their feelings and guide them as they journey towards healing and wholeness.
I believe everyone has internal wisdom and the ability to heal themselves.
However, sometimes things in our minds and hearts get tangled and we need outside support to reclaim the joy and peace we deserve.
As an experienced, open-minded, and deeply intuitive counselor, I’m here to help your teen tap into their unique strengths and uncover the resilience and wellness that is buried within. My somatically-minded approach helps my clients make sense of their thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviors so they can live their most authentic, meaningful life.
Why I’m here:
To provide a safe, calm environment of curiosity, compassion, and hope so teens can learn to how to gain self-awareness, develop coping skills and uncover their true greatness.
Some of the skills I incorporate:
Mindfulness
Somatic strategies
Psychobio Physiological approach
My experience + qualifications
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Qualifications
☑ Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor & Supervisor
☑ MA Ed in Counseling
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Experience
☑ 25 years as a School Counselor for Buncombe County Schools
☑ Board Member for the Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders, 2019 - present
☑ Group Leader for Adult Eating Disorder Recovery Support Group, CRC for ED
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Further Training
☑ Certified Resilience Trainer with Resources for Resilience™
☑ Triple P trainer
☑ Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Training Level 2 (CCTPII): Treatment of Complex Trauma and Dissociative Disorders with Janina Fischer
☑ Certified Safe and Sound Protocol Provider
How I work with teens
My background
With 25 years’ experience as a school counselor working with varying ages and developmental stages, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues today’s teens face as well as the underlying behaviors and strategies teens use to soothe themselves. I have specialized experience identifying disordered eating patterns and working with parents to build a network of support and recovery.
My holistic therapeutic approach
When one becomes trapped in anxiety, depression & self-doubt, they become disconnected from the wisdom one’s body has to offer. Using a multisensory integrated approach teaches teens to trust in themselves, develop the confidence to overcome challenges, and discover and communicate what they need.
Sensory & somatic focus
My work with teens incorporates a strong sensory/body-oriented component. This approach is unique as it works not simply to address, but also to understand the protective function behind a teen’s behaviors. With curiosity and awareness, we work through deep barriers so your teen can reconnect with our internal wisdom and heal.
Working together with parents and other professionals
Parents and family members are vital parts of your teen’s recovery and healing. I work closely with parents, family members as well as other professionals including family therapists, physicians, and nutritionists. This wrap-around support allows the family to get the coaching and skills they need. It also provides a safe space to process and explore.
The result
Your teen gets a holistic program that helps them heal physically and emotionally while gaining lifelong skills they need to survive - and thrive - in the challenging world they are facing.
How can I support you?
Individual therapy
Integrated therapy to support teens with eating disorders, disordered eating, trauma and body image challenges in person in Asheville, NC or virtual across North Carolina & South Carolina
Professional Associations