About

I have been in practice for over ten years and have a deep passion for the work.  Every person who come into treatment is courageous and it is an honor to work with them.

I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Kent State University in 2003 and also hold a Master’s Degree from Wake Forest University in General Psychology. I am currently licensed in Virginia and Maryland.  I have served on National Boards and committees, aiding in research and treatment.

I have worked with a wide range of clients and currently focus on the treatment of trauma, mood, anxiety, and PTSD.  Trauma comes in many forms and I encourage you to read more about it in the Trauma section of my site.  I have treated over a hundred active duty combat veterans and survivors of sexual assault. Treatment works.

I have an active yoga and meditation practice which serves me well in finding balance and center in my life.  I also volunteer with my local MENSA organization on various functions and presentations.

My current focus is on providing behaviorally based treatment informed by research. I utilize what I consider to be a holistic framework which examines how to make changes in larger problems by addressing smaller, more easily managed daily behaviors and decisions. Goal setting, value clarification, habit re-writing, and mindfulness are techniques common in my practice. Holistic treatment addresses all aspects of someone’s life including their actions, beliefs, values, sleeping and eating patterns, and habits. Psychotherapy in this context is about collaboratively working towards greater awareness of these patterns and how to make alterations in these patterns in a manner that moves one continually towards healthy living. As humans, we are much better at moving towards something of worth than trying to “not” do or feel something unpleasant.  Habit change becomes easy in this context.