Relationships have always fascinated me. I’ve been interested in what makes them work, why some succeed and others don’t. I enjoy helping individuals and couples work through challenging issues which have prevented them from experiencing fulfilling relationships. A lot of research has been conducted on people who: feel unfulfilled in their romantic relationships, are cheating on their partners, are exhibiting out of control sexual behaviors or are experiencing very low sexual desire. Unfortunately, there are fewer research articles on specific techniques to help people work through these difficulties. For that reason, as well as others, I obtained advanced post-graduate training at the American Academy of Clinical Sexology in 2009. This amazing program prepared me to adequately treat a wide variety of sexual, intimacy and relationship problems. Prior to this training, I specialized in treating depression and anxiety and to date, I still continue do so using evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I firmly believe everyone is good at something but everyone can’t be an expert on everything. That’s why I have limited my areas of specialty to depression, anxiety and relationship issues. While I am qualified to treat substance abuse and severe, persistent mental illness, I will refer these individuals to specialized therapists in those fields.
My clients are typically high-functioning, motivated and committed to making changes in their lives. They desire change but might not know what to do or where to begin. My clients are reliable and committed to working with me to improve their lives. Your time and money are valuable so I strive to be structured, goal-oriented and brief (when possible). My goal is to give you the tools and resources that you need to create the changes you desire. My goal is not to keep you in therapy for the rest of your life! If you’re satisfied with our work together, then you’re likely to refer someone else to me. That is the highest compliment a therapist can receive.
I’m an avid reader and try to stay up on the latest research in my field. I travel frequently attending conferences and trainings. Occasionally I present my own research at international conferences.
Professional Credentials:
- 14 years of clinical experience
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
- Assistant Clinical Professor at the American Academy of Clinical Sexology
- Doctorate in Human Sexuality from the American Academy of Clinical Sexology
- Master of Science in Psychology from Nova Southeastern University
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Diplomate American Board of Sexology
- Member of AASECT American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists
- Member of AMHCA American Mental Health Counselors Association
- Member of FMHCA Florida Mental Health Counselors Association
- Continuing education and collaboration with Dr. William Granzig, Dr. Joe Kort, Dr. Tammy Nelson, Sue Johnson, Harville Hendrix, Drs. John and Julie Gottman, and Hedi and Yumi Schliefer
- Advanced post-graduate training in couples therapy and infidelity
- Advanced post-graduate training in female sexual dysfunctions and disorders
- Advanced post-graduate training in LGBTQI issues
- Conducted numerous workshops on depression and anxiety
Expertise
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Relationship, intimacy and sexual concerns
- Pre-marital counseling