My therapeutic approach is to provide a safe, comfortable space for you to explore all parts of yourself and customize your unique treatment plan according to what the presenting issues are.
When we work together, I am invested in your progress and, while no two human beings have the same journey through healing – together, we can create and navigate a path that will get you where you want to go.
I work especially well with…
- Driven, ambitious, risk-takers,
- Leaders, entrepreneurs, executives,
- Women approaching mid-life who are navigating their next chapter,
- Those who struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing, resolving interpersonal conflict, or worrying about what other people think.
Together, we uncover the root of these patterns, apply specialized modalities for healing, and begin to wire new neural pathways for new experiences, behaviors, and the ability to lead and grow in your career.
In terms of my personal approach, I bring compassion, ease, excellence, and a sense of humor to our work together.
I use a variety of modalities in my therapeutic approach and practice.
My approach with each client is fully customized to their needs. We may use some, all, or just a few of the modalities listed, depending on what will most help you.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
Flash Technique:
A beautifully fast, evidence-based somatic and cognitive modality that was discovered a couple of years ago by Dr. Philip Manfield, a well-known EMDR trainer and therapist. It has you address trauma without even thinking about it. This gentler, effective approach can be ideal for folks who want to heal without reliving all the pain of their trauma to be able to reprocess it.
Internal Family Systems (IFS-also known as “Parts Work”):
Developed by Richard Schwartz, this transformative, evidence-based model allows you to access all parts of yourself to lead and create your own healing, because every part of you serves a powerful purpose in your life.
Nervous System Regulation:
We’ll work on the ability to move flexibly and adapt between stressful situations to prevent overwhelm and manage activation, anxiety, numbness, and agitation. This includes paying attention to your heart-rate and incorporating a variety of simple tools to strengthen your vagus nerve and support your progress.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:
An evidence-based approach to alter your negative patterns of thinking, interrupt them, and remove cognitive distortions so you can view your life through a lens that serves you.
Mindfulness-Based Techniques:
Together, we can work through a process to help train you to be more in the present moment and access more self-compassion. This helps you shift out of self-flagellating or ruminating on the past or the future, which can be a source of stress, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Solution-Focused Therapy:
A more goal-focused, evidence-based approach that incorporates positive psychology principles. Ideal for the person who wants to move through a faster process to create change in their life.
Education and Clinical Experience
MSSA, LISW, LCSW
- Master of Science, Social Work, 1995
- Case Western Reserve University
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker CW015757 OH
- Licensed Independent Social Worker I.2203424
- EMDRIA Certified EMDR Clinician
- Bachelor of Arts, History & Sociology, Hiram College
After 20 years of clinical experiences in a wide range of settings, I opened my private practice, Happy Valley Counseling, LLC in 2011.
- Private Practice Owner & Licensed Clinical Therapist, Happy Valley Counseling
- Licensed Clinical Therapist, Sunpointe Health, State College, PA
- Licensed Clinical Therapist, Lewistown Hospital, Lewistown, PA
- Behavioral Health Specialist, Northwestern Human Services, State College, PA
I offer virtual therapy and teletherapy services to residents of Ohio and Pennsylvania.
If you live outside of these states, and you’re interested in working together, please head to this site here for more information on my coaching services: Mldcoaching.co
Why Online Therapy?
Online therapy is proving to be just as effective as in-person, and it allows you to find the therapist that will best support you in your journey, regardless of geographical convenience. This makes therapy more accessible and flexible to your goals and needs. Imagine being able to dial in from the park, or while (parked) in your car, instead of worrying about traffic or travel time.
In addition to this, I’ve also found that clients often feel more comfortable doing a session from a safe space in their own homes, surrounded by what is familiar, including some of their favorite things.
This is why my services are available exclusively online for residents of Ohio and Pennsylvania.
I believe that…