
Frequently asked questions
Effective therapy starts with meeting clients where they are, whether they are navigating life transitions, managing stress, or working through deeper emotional struggles. I support clients in becoming the version of themselves they want to be by fostering self-awareness and inspiring confidence in their ability to make positive changes. An important part of therapy is developing the ability to see perspectives outside our own, which can be difficult when we are deeply immersed in our personal experiences. When I supportively challenge clients, it is not to guide them toward a "right" way of thinking or being, because, with few exceptions, I don’t believe there is one. Instead, therapy is about creating space for self-discovery, personal growth, and building a life that aligns with each client’s values and aspirations.
To create a safe and engaging space, I rely on a blend of compassion, supportive challenges, and humor, helping clients feel understood and empowered to take meaningful steps toward the change they seek.
With children who are 6+ and computer literate, I use play and creative interventions via telehealth to create a safe and engaging space for emotional expression. Play is a child’s natural way of processing experiences, and through interactive activities, storytelling, and creative exercises, therapy becomes a meaningful way for them to explore and communicate their feelings. I combine structured interventions with a child-led approach to help children develop emotional awareness and regulation rather than focusing on behavioral modification.
To enhance the telehealth experience, I incorporate technology-based interventions alongside my "Portable Playroom," a customized kit of therapeutic toys, art supplies, and sensory tools delivered to the child's home (available in Northern VA and MD). This ensures children have hands-on materials to support their therapy experience, making remote sessions interactive and engaging.
Like adults, minors have the right to confidentiality in therapy, as maintaining privacy is essential for creating a safe and trusting environment. Therapy with clients under 18 years old takes a collaborative approach when confidentiality must be broken due to harmful behaviors or safety concerns. Outside of these situations, session details are not shared with parents or guardians. Instead, I work with the minor client to decide what themes or topics can be communicated, ensuring parents or guardians stay informed while respecting the client’s privacy.
I am an approved supervisor by the Virginia Board of Counseling. Supervision should be a rewarding, supportive, and growth-oriented experience. My goal is to provide a collaborative and interactive process that enhances client care, strengthens your clinical skills, and fosters your professional development. I believe in a growth mindset and am committed to helping you build confidence and competence as you work toward licensure.
Before focusing on individual therapy, due to frequent military-related moves, I enjoyed working in a variety of mental health settings. I have experience in long-term residential, crisis counseling, school settings, large-scale grief events, and military pre/post-deployment functions.
I require my supervisees to have an on-site supervisor (not necessarily for licensure) who can review and sign off on notes and treatment plans. Both my supervisees and I maintain professional liability insurance to ensure ethical and professional standards of practice.
Supervision is more than just a licensure requirement; it’s an opportunity to refine your skills, deepen your understanding of counseling theories, and develop the professional confidence needed for a successful career. I look forward to supporting you on this journey!
Telehealth mental health counseling is a form of therapy where you meet through secure video rather than in person. Currently, I use a HIPAA-compliant version of Zoom. It provides the same types of support, confidentiality, and professionalism as traditional, face-to-face counseling, just in a virtual format. You can talk, process emotions, learn coping skills, and work toward your treatment goals, just as you would in an office session.
Increased Convenience
With online therapy, there’s no need to commute, find parking, or rush between appointments. This flexibility makes it easier to fit sessions into your schedule, whether you’re at home, on your lunch break, or traveling within a licensed state.
Greater Accessibility
Telehealth removes many of the barriers that can make it challenging to start or maintain therapy. Clients who live in remote or underserved areas, have transportation challenges, or experience health or mobility limitations can access high-quality care without the added stress of travel.
Comfortable Environment
Meeting in a familiar space can help many clients feel more at ease and open during sessions. You are responsible for ensuring your own privacy and conducting therapy in a confidential space. This could be a bedroom, home office, or even a parked car, anywhere you can speak freely without being overheard. Pets are always welcome to make a guest appearance.
State Regulations
Therapy is a state-licensed profession, which means that for ethical and legal reasons, clients must be physically located in a state where I am licensed at the time of the session. I currently serve clients in Virginia (VA), Maryland (MD), Rhode Island (RI), Texas (TX), and Louisiana (LA), including those who may be temporarily traveling or residing in those states.
Technology Requirements
To ensure a smooth and connected experience, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and a device that supports video sessions, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Transition Time
Online therapy can be deeply reflective, and it’s common to need a few minutes afterward to process what came up in session. I encourage clients to schedule an extra 10–15 minutes after our meetings to journal, take a walk, or simply pause before returning to daily responsibilities. This helps your mind and body integrate the work we’ve done and transition smoothly back into your day.
