
My Education
In 2018, I received a Bachelor of Science degree in both Psychology and Sociology (with a concentration in Criminology) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In 2020, I received my Master of Science degree in Clinical Counseling, with an emphasis in Addictions, from East Carolina University. I am now a fully Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist.
My Related Experience
During the Fall of 2019, I completed a practicum with an Office Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT) Program in Washington, NC. I then completed an internship in the Spring of 2020 with a private practice in Greenville, NC. During my practicum and internship, I completed DWI assessments, facilitated SAIOP and SACOT group sessions, and provided individual and group counseling for individuals with substance use disorders and mental health diagnoses.
For the last four years, I have worked in Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) providing Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to individuals experiencing opioid use disorder. MAT consists of using an FDA-approved medication in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. While much of my work has focused on substance use concerns, I have also counseled people experiencing a variety of presentations, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, personality disorders, and more. I have experience with both group therapy and individual counseling.
My Special Training or Certifications
My primary specialty is addictions counseling. I completed my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through East Carolina University’s Department of Addictions and Rehabilitation Studies. Additionally, I have completed trainings in Motivational Interviewing, the ASAM criteria, and MAT.
I am currently credentialed as a Clinical Supervisor Intern (CSI) through the North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board. I have received additional education and training in the supervision of other substance use professionals.
My Areas of Focus
I focus primarily on mental health and substance use concerns.
- Substance Use Disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety
- PTSD/trauma
- Grief/Loss
- Family/Couples
My Purpose for Choosing Counseling
While completing my degree at UNC Greensboro, I spent several years as an undergraduate researcher in a lab studying borderline personality disorder. Through this, I had the opportunity to combine my interests of clinical research and mental health. I conducted a study and completed an undergraduate thesis looking at the relationship between personality disorder features, attachment styles, and perceptions of intimate partner violence.
My plan was to then attend a PhD program in Clinical Psychology. Though I was passionate about clinical research, I longed for the opportunity to have more direct interaction with individuals experiencing these symptoms. Ultimately, I decided to pursue clinical mental health counseling as I felt it aligned best with my desire to directly support and assist individuals experiencing mental health concerns.
My Life Outside the Office
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs. I have four miniature dachshunds that are spoiled with attention. I am also a passionate hockey fan. I grew up attending and watching Philadelphia Flyers games with my dad, and I now try to attend games at PNC Arena as often as I can.
