Trauma Focused Therapists in Marana, AZ

Does your child have big emotions, anger, worries, or behaviors that you are struggling to understand? Has your child been through something difficult or just isn’t acting like themselves? If your child is expressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or unexplained difficulties, a play-based model allows a safe environment to explore their feelings and needs affecting healthy functioning. I specialize in using a genuine, non-judgmental, supportive approach to helping children and families develop new ways of thinking and feeling, as well as learning new sets of skills for making choices and having healthier relationships.

Trauma can make you feel alone and misunderstood. You might feel like there is no one you can talk to because you don't want to cause them pain. You try to smile and carry on but this too has stopped working. Maybe you are angry, maybe you are afraid. I get that. Maybe you just want it all to stop and go back to the way it used to be. I get that too. Trauma can be a big event or reoccurring smaller events (micro-traumas). Even relationships can feel traumatic.

Having worked in the mental health field for 9+ years and presently as a Senior Social Worker at a government agency, I have helped patients with a diverse array of both severe and chronic problems to include depression, anxiety, addiction, insomnia, suicidal ideation, self-directed violence, chronic pain, marital conflict, parenting difficulties, and diverse traumas to include sexual and military traumas. My ideal client is one who is willing to have a guided conversation, is receptive to feedback, and who completes between-session work. Most of my clients have a goal to decrease depression and anxiety and improve mood.

Congratulations on taking the first step on the journey toward healing, self-discovery, and growth! Often times, seeking support comes with a mixed bag of emotions and barriers, making it very challenging to even begin the process. We can easily become a product of our circumstances, getting lost in survival mode or our comfort zones, but life is too short to get stuck there and that's where I come in. Having navigated my own hardships and traumas, I know how complex it can be to recover, heal, and move forward. It is without a doubt one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, experiences and you are worth it!

I am deeply aware of the profound effects that stress, anxiety, and unresolved trauma can have on every aspect of our lives. They can weigh heavily on our relationships, careers, families, and self-worth; leaving us feeling trapped and unable to move forward. I believe that fear and anxiety do not have to dictate our daily thoughts and actions. Through my work, I am passionate about guiding clients towards a path of healing. If you're ready to take that first step towards a brighter tomorrow.

I have a unique background and heart to support emergency responders because I am an EMT and retired law enforcement officer. I have been a licensed therapist in Arizona since 2007. I believe first responders are very strong and resilient people, but sometimes they need support by a licensed professional who understands their jobs and work culture. I can help them build resilience, learn additional coping tools to get better outcomes at work and at home, and I can provide a safe and understanding environment to "off-load" and process some of the intrusive effects of trauma they've experienced (accepting adult clients only).

Have you been feeling unhappy and disconnected, almost as if running on autopilot? Do you often feel like no matter how much you accomplish, it's never enough? Are you worrying throughout your day, feeling guarded with those around you? Is it hard to ask for what you need from others, and often feel resentful and unhappy in relationships? You are not alone and deserve support during these challenging times.