My path to counseling has been shaped by an appreciation for science, human development, relationships, and the ways individuals experience the world around them. I began my academic journey at Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Professional Health Sciences with a minor in Anthropology, followed by a Master of Science in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University. Although my early education focused on the sciences, my professional experiences increasingly drew me toward understanding human behavior, development, and emotional well-being. I eventually earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University and am currently pursuing a Doctor of Behavioral Health at Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies.

Before entering the counseling field, I worked as a high school science educator supporting students from underserved and alternative educational backgrounds. These experiences strengthened my interest in the relationship between individual experiences, development, and behavior. Over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to the relational and emotional factors that influence how individuals navigate their environments and relationships. This interest ultimately led me toward clinical mental health counseling.

Horses have also been an important part of my professional and personal journey. With more than a decade of experience working with horses and involvement in the equine industry since 2016, I have developed a deep appreciation for the opportunities experiential interactions can provide. My background in the equine field has influenced my interest in equine-assisted psychotherapy, animal-assisted interventions, and nature-based approaches to mental health. I continue to pursue education and mentorship in these areas to strengthen the integration of experiential approaches within my clinical work.

My clinical interests center on attachment, relational trauma, and the ways early experiences can influence emotional development, interpersonal relationships, and an individual's sense of safety. I am particularly interested in working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, Autism, trauma, and relational challenges, including individuals with foster care and adoption experiences. I value neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based approaches that recognize individual differences and honor each person's autonomy, experiences, and existing capabilities.

My approach to counseling is grounded in attachment theory and informed by trauma-responsive, somatic, and experiential perspectives. I believe connection precedes correction and that understanding the needs and experiences underlying behavior can create opportunities for meaningful growth. I strive to approach each individual with curiosity rather than assumptions, emphasizing collaboration, felt safety, self-awareness, and the development of a more compassionate relationship with oneself and others.

Outside of traditional psychotherapy approaches, my professional interests include equine-assisted interventions, animal-assisted experiences, eco-therapy, and Geek Therapy. I enjoy exploring how creative, relational, and experiential approaches can support emotional expression, regulation, and self-discovery. I believe therapy should be responsive to the individual rather than expecting individuals to fit into a predetermined approach.

In addition to my clinical work, I enjoy supporting educational opportunities that connect young people with horses and the natural world through nonprofit equine education initiatives. These experiences reflect my continued interest in making meaningful, accessible learning and growth opportunities available to individuals and communities.

I have been trained in Equid Nexus IFS Equine Engaged “parts work," Equine Somatic Pathways, The Icarus Model of equine assisted psychotherapy, DBT, attachment therapy, play therapy, animal assisted therapy, and eco-therapy.