I grew up in Western New York and attended the University of Rochester, where I studied psychology, business, and studio art. At first, those might seem like an unusual mix, but they all shaped how I think about human behavior. Psychology helped me understand the science of thought and emotion, business gave me insight into decision-making and motivation, and art taught me how curiosity shapes perspective. These interests all pointed me toward a career in clinical psychology, where I could combine science, strategy, and creativity to help people make meaningful changes.

This led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, starting in Athens, Ohio and finishing in Tucson, Arizona. Living in the desert was an adjustment, but I quickly grew to love the wide open spaces, the hiking trails, and the kind of sunsets that make you stop whatever you are doing just to take them in. My Ph.D. focused on clinical health psychology, where I studied the motivational factors behind health behavior change—why people struggle with making sustainable changes and what actually helps them move forward.

For my internship, I trained at the Syracuse VA Medical Center, specializing in trauma and psychological assessment. After that, I completed a postdoctoral fellowship focused on mindfulness based therapy practices, learning how intentional awareness and acceptance can be powerful tools for managing anxiety, perfectionism, and stress.

I then moved to Houston to work at Baylor College of Medicine as an assistant professor, working at The Menninger Clinic as an assessment psychologist. Here, I evaluated and treated many high achieving professionals and athletes dealing with complex mental health concerns. After a year at the OCD Institute of Texas, where I specialized in intensive treatment for OCD and anxiety disorders, I decided to shift my focus to private practice.

Now, in addition to my practice, I serve as the Assistant Director of Psycho-oncology at UT Health Houston, where I am an assistant professor. Across all of these roles, my focus has remained the same. I help people navigate fear, worry, and doubt, so they can show up fully in their lives.

Therapy with me is active, direct, and collaborative. I am not the type of therapist who just nods and asks, "How does that make you feel?" We will roll up our sleeves and get to work.

I take an evidence-based approach, which means we are not just talking about the problem but actually making changes. We will identify patterns that are keeping you stuck, experiment with new ways of thinking and behaving, and fine-tune strategies to help you move forward.

Growth happens between sessions, not just during them. You'll have specific assignments, exercises, and sometimes reading that reinforce what we're working on together. Whether it's practicing a new coping skill, tracking patterns, or implementing strategies we've discussed, you'll have clear action steps to take between our meetings. This accountability outside our weekly sessions is what transforms insights into lasting habits and real progress.

Expect a balance of warmth, humor, and challenge. I will be supportive and compassionate, but I will also push you when needed. If you are used to high standards and perfectionism, you will appreciate that I do not settle for vague advice or passive listening. I will help you set clear goals and take meaningful action.

My goal is not to keep you in therapy forever. It is to help you build the skills and confidence to manage challenges on your own.

Most of my clients tell me that working with me feels refreshing because they leave each session with something practical to work on. They also appreciate that I have a direct but down-to-earth style. If that sounds like what you are looking for, let's get started.

Degrees

• BA in Psychology, University of Rochester

• MS in Clinical Psychology, Ohio University

• PhD in Clinical Psychology, concentration Health Psychology, University of Arizona

Fellowship

• Heritage Fellowship, Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Athens, OH

• Pre-Doctoral Internship, Syracuse Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Syracuse, NY

• Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Metta Psychotherapy, Tucson, AZ

Licensure

• Licensed Psychologist, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

• Licensed Psychologist, Arizona Board of Psychologist Examiners

• Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) under the authority of PSYPACT