nice to meet you!
Born and raised in New York City, I experienced the many beautiful challenges and joys of what it means to be a city kid. It can be hard to navigate the stimuli and sensory experiences of a city such as this, especially for children and adults with an energetically-sensitive disposition or temperament. Parents may find themselves stressed by the busy lifestyle that the city promotes, the pressures of managing both work and parenting. It is not easy. At the core of my practice, I value and honor children's and families' voices, histories, resourcefulness and strengths. I take deep pride and joy in working with children and families who are navigating challenging moments in their lives, as I honor my role as a partner in development and support for parents and children, alike.
I received my Bachelors Degree from Oberlin College in 2002, where my passion for working with children through the creative arts began. I moved on to work extensively in the Social Work field for many years, combining my love for art and deep emotional work with children and families in various settings such as school and shelter environments. I received my Masters Degree in Social Work at Hunter College in 2010 and received a specialized certification in Peer Play Group Therapy from the Relationships for Growth and Learning Program at the Jewish Board for Family and Children's Services in 2011, where I deepened my skill set in working both one on one with parents and children as well as with groups of children. I've also completed various trainings and institute course work in early childhood through adolescent development.
As a clinician who's been working in school settings for many years, I've been very connected to the struggles and challenges of what it means to be a teacher, holding and supporting children who need a depth of response, nurture and care. Teachers are often surrogate caregivers as well as partners in development, which can bring with it hardships, loss and frustrations. I've been leading Teacher Support Groups for many years and find this modality to be of great impact as well as extremely rewarding. I feel drawn to support and advocate for the adults that work with and hold children's life stories.
Throughout my years as a clinician, I've had in depth experiences working with people of all ages, sexual, racial, ethnic, and religious orientations and socioeconomic status. I truly value the significance of my clients' environmental circumstances and life context. Utilizing a non judgmental and deeply empathic approach, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment, responsive to my clients' needs.