What am I like as a Therapist?
I am very personable! I think forming a strong, trusting, and secure therapeutic relationship is crucial to our work together. That means, although I still believe in professional boundaries, I am not rigid or formal in our sessions. After the first few times we meet, I do not take notes during our session time. Instead, I focus on listening to what you say, watching your body language, witnessing the art making process, and being with you in the present moment.
As a therapist, I also try to find a balance between being validating and supportive yet also holding people accountable and encouraging them to grow. I can be challenging and direct, while also being nurturing and responding with empathy.
Additionally, I think it’s important we examine oppressive social systems that negatively impact our mental health. Hierarchical power dynamics, that unless dismantled, make it very difficult to heal. I like to step away from the idea that an individual’s mental health is dependent on their own actions, but rather shaped by societal constructs. I welcome discussion around these topics, as well as feedback for how I show up in our space.
Education and Experience
I have a Master of Arts in Art Therapy from The George Washington University. I also completed a Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a women’s studies emphasis. I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Art Therapist, LCPAT in the state of Maryland (#ATC393) and a Board Certified Art Therapist, ATR-BC (#21-430).
My interest in becoming an art therapist started many years ago when I worked alongside an art therapist in a domestic violence shelter. I was able to see how art making along with therapy could help people heal and process traumatic experiences in ways that language alone is sometimes unable to do. After working at the shelter for three years, I decided to go back to school to become an art therapist myself.
Since then, I have done clinical work with Arlington County Government, a CBT-focused private practice, an art therapy private practice, and schools around Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. Throughout my career I have also been able to present at a variety of professional conferences. After years of experience in both private and public settings, I decided to create Lavender Place Art Therapy.
Therapeutic Approach
In my work, I utilize Jungian approaches to art therapy—namely active imagination and dream work—while also incorporating a multi-cultural and intersectional social justice lens. I have a special interest in attachment styles, somatic therapy, parts work, and occasionally pull from Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
My passion for human rights and social issues—including race, class, gender and sexuality—continually inform my practice. In tandem with my anti-racism commitment, I acknowledge the Piscataway people, on whose land I am working.
