I started my journey in mental health working for a children’s inpatient hospital in San Antonio. I worked as a direct care staff which means I accompanied a group of children to their daily activities, and monitored their behavior and mood. One thing that stood out to me from working there is how much these kids needed a safe space…somewhere to be heard. There was one specific conversation I had with a 12 year old who was struggling with severe depression and suicidal ideation. I spent maybe an hour with her, but I could tell the difference in her mood and resemblance from the beginning to the end of our conversation. After this experience, I decided I wanted to pursue my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a therapist.

After graduating, I worked at a domestic violence shelter where I gained experience working with survivors of sexual assault, verbal, physical, and emotional abuse. After that, I worked in a couple of group practices before deciding to start my own practice.

Starting my practice was scary, but I valued autonomy and wanted more work/life balance so I could be more available to my family and provide better care for my clients. I have personally learned the importance of self-care and balance…probably the hard way..but this is something I’ve seen many people struggle with. Both my professional and personal life experiences have influenced the help I provide to others. I work with you as a team not a superior, because I too am human and am still learning how to navigate life.

In my spare time, I like to watch TV (guilty pleasure is reality shows), exercise, eat (I’m a bit of a foodie), and spend quality time with my family and friends.