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Diversity

About Me (he, him, his)

Fundamentally, the work of psychotherapy spoke to me because I wanted to engage with people in a healing process that is compassionate and human but grounded in the science and rigor of Clinical Psychology. I also wanted to serve the mental health needs of all members of LGBTQ+ communities. I've been able to pursue both of these priorities by training in LGBT community mental health and working with diverse student bodies in university counseling centers around the country. I used these experiences to train and teach future psychologists as Clinical Psychology Training Coordinator at Illinois Tech's Health Center and then as Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Training in a doctoral psychology program at in Chicago, IL. Since then, I've been practicing independently full time since 2017. 

 

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I'm also committed to service in the field of Psychology. I've served in many roles in governing psychology bodies that advocate for diverse and inclusive education, training, oversight, and governance in the field. I'm currently President of the Illinois Psychological Association which actively lobbies for required education on diversity for IL Psychologists, expanding health insurance coverage, and advocates for patients and providers to receive fair treatment by law.  View my CV

My Approach

As a psychologist, I often find it helpful to explain how therapy works to demystify the process for my clients. Therapy is essentially a collaborative journey between the therapist and the client, aimed at promoting emotional healing, personal growth, and positive change.

At its core, therapy provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. Through this exploration, clients gain insight into the root causes of their difficulties and develop strategies to address them effectively.​

One key aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself. Trust and rapport between the client and therapist are crucial for the success of the therapeutic process. Clients should feel comfortable sharing their innermost thoughts and feelings with their therapist, knowing that they will be heard with empathy and understanding.

Therapy also involves learning and practicing new skills to cope with life's challenges more effectively. Whether it's managing stress, improving communication, or changing self-defeating patterns, therapy equips clients with the tools they need to navigate life with greater resilience and confidence.

Furthermore, therapy provides a space for self-reflection and self-discovery. Clients often gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their values, and their goals through the therapeutic process. This self-awareness lays the foundation for meaningful personal growth and transformation.

It's important to recognize that therapy is not a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires time, effort, and commitment from both the client and therapist. However, with perseverance and dedication, therapy can lead to profound and lasting positive change in one's life.

Ultimately, therapy is a journey of self-exploration and empowerment, guided by a skilled and compassionate therapist. By actively engaging in the therapeutic process, individuals can overcome obstacles, build resilience, and create a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Practice Focus Areas

• LGBTQ+ concerns
• Intersectionality & Intersecting Identities
• Children of narcissists
• Relationship concerns
• Anxiety
• Depression

• Purpose and Fulfillment

• Work and Career Concerns

Education and Training


• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD):
  Illinois School of Professional
  Psychology//2009

• Bachelor of Music, manga cum laude:    Berklee College of Music//2002

• Externship: Howard Brown
  Health Center//2007 

• Fellowship: University of Illinois
  Counseling Center//2009
• Fellowship: Princeton University
  Health Services//2010

• Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis,

  Postdoctoral Certificate in       

  Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy//2012

Licenses and Certifications


• Licensed Clinical Psychologist,
   State of Illinois
• National Register of Health Service         Providers in Psychology

• Authority to Practice
   Interjurisdictional Psychology
   in 39 participating states

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