CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING:
Professional Ballantyne NC Therapist & Counselor
Works With
Youth/Teens (6+) | Adults (18+)
Areas of Focus
I first earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from North Carolina State University, where I strengthened my communication and critical thinking skills. Later, I followed my passion for helping others and completed my Master of Social Work at the University of Southern California. My education gave me both a practical and human perspective, allowing me to understand how people think, what drives them, and how to inspire real change.
I’ve always been passionate about working with people. I enjoy hearing their stories, understanding their emotions, and making them feel seen. Becoming a therapist has truly been a full-circle journey for me. I dreamed of this career in high school but chose to study business instead, not knowing then how my experiences would eventually lead me right back here.
Like many, I faced my own unrecognized mental health challenges growing up, but I didn’t begin therapy until young adulthood. That experience changed my life. It showed me the power of genuine connection and how healing it can be to have a safe space where you can just be yourself. It also shaped how I show up in my work—with empathy, authenticity, and compassion for every person I meet.
After several years in the corporate world, I realized my passion wasn’t really in business but the people behind it. I loved the relationships I built and the meaningful conversations we shared. People often felt comfortable opening up to me, and I found a sense of purpose in being there for them. This realization brought me back to the field I was drawn to in the first place. Now, I get to guide others through life’s struggles and empower them to feel more grounded, confident, and connected.
My approach to mental health counseling is laid-back, client-centered, and focused on creating a safe space where you can talk openly and progress at your own pace. I aim to strike the right balance between meeting you where you are and gently encouraging growth. In each session, I always bring compassion, an open mind, and a good listening ear, which lets me connect more deeply with my clients.
Depending on your age and needs, I use a mix of different techniques, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, play therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and solution-focused therapy. I also bring creativity into the process so it feels engaging and personal.
I offer in-person and remote sessions, each lasting 50 minutes. I typically recommend starting with weekly appointments, especially early on. That way, we have time to build trust and get to know one another.
I see both life and therapy as ongoing journeys, ones with opportunities to grow, heal, and connect with ourselves and others. Therapy offers a space to slow down, make sense of what feels overwhelming, and find new ways to move forward.
Above all else, I believe that the relationship between counselor and patient matters most. I come to each session with empathy and curiosity, viewing my clients as the experts of their own stories. Therapy is a collaborative process, & I adjust our work to fit your pace, needs, & goals so it feels personal to you.
Together, we’ll explore the challenges you’re facing, while recognizing your strengths and what’s already working. My goal is for you to feel cared for, empowered, and equipped to create the kind of changes you want to see in your life.
Looking ahead, I see myself continuing to support clients while also mentoring new therapists as they develop. I’m passionate about learning and always looking for ways to strengthen my skills. In the coming years, I plan to expand my training in play therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and other interactive, trauma-informed approaches.
Beyond the office, I want to impact the broader mental health field by encouraging more open, honest conversations about emotional well-being. I care deeply about reducing stigma around mental health and highlighting its importance for overall wellness. As I continue to nurture growth in myself and others, I’ll advocate for the values that brought me to this work in the first place.
Outside of work, I make it a priority to spend time doing things that help me recharge and stay balanced. I love being with my family, staying active through tennis or running, and going outdoors with my two dogs for long walks or a game of fetch.
Travel is another big part of my self-care. I enjoy exploring new places, especially when it involves discovering a cozy local coffee shop. Making time for these moments lets me maintain my mental wellness and be fully present, positive, and energized for my clients.
We would love to schedule a time to talk to you more about how we can help! We serve clients throughout the Charlotte, NC area, providing quality grief counseling and depression therapy.