I believe we are made to know and to be known and to love and to be loved. We experience this bi-directional relationship via authentic connection. As humans, we are always looking to relate, but often the connection is made, instead, with lies about our value or worth. If we do not connect with other individuals, relating with destructive self-narratives seems like an all-too-easy alternate solution.

My passion is for clients to experience “being known” during our times together, for the beauty of relating with another living soul often facilitates the redemption of destructive narratives we unwittingly carry. As we experience connection with another’s presence, we often learn that it is worth fighting for additional authentic bonds, too, for destructive narratives do not bring peace in the same way as does a smile from a good friend. I believe therapy is a place of refuge to begin to trust, once again, that smile from a friend and to prioritize future smiles and true connection.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, I am an avid sports fan of teams from Chicago’s northern neighbor. However, Chicago is now my endearing home and I cherish both the beauty and diversity of the city’s neighborhoods, cultures, and food. Exploring all this city has to offer could take a lifetime and I am up to the challenge. When not eating my way through Chicago, I am likely staying active, reading a good book, enjoying live theater, or laughing about inside jokes with friends and family.