Therapy Focuses on Building a Secure and Trusting Relationship

I earned my Masters in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I provide a safe space for adults and couples to explore and heal from the pain they’ve experienced.

I have experience working with adults coping with a wide range of challenges such as anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, and a variety of life transitions. I am especially passionate about working with people navigating changes in their religion and spirituality, coping with the loss of a religious community, or recovering from harm or trauma experienced in a religious community.

So many people have experienced harm as they were looking for meaning and community and this can often leave them confused and isolated, whether they choose to remain a part of that community or to leave it. They might feel that they have let down their families, their communities, or even a higher power. Internally, they may question whether or not they can trust their own judgment as they question beliefs that were once closely held. In cases where people choose to leave a religious community, they may find themselves feeling unmoored and unsure how to make decisions or find other types of meaning and community. If you are in this position, the good news is that you are not alone. Adverse Religious Experiences (AREs) and Religious Trauma Syndrome (RTS) are common, though not well-known or widely discussed.

As a former pastor and as someone who had to personally navigate these types of changes, I understand the unique challenges that come with trying to recover from the specific harm that occurs in religious settings and the ways that it overlaps and intersects with everything from mental health concerns and substance use issues to gender identity and sexuality.

I’m excited to begin working with you on your journey towards healing and peace from within. Interested in scheduling an appointment with me? Please give us a call at 217-203-2008.