My Story

I discovered the counseling world a bit later in life than many- both personally and professionally. I struggled with addiction and the underlying issues that led me to seek comfort in substances for many years. It wreaked havoc on my relationships, health, and professional career and led me astray from any semblance of a balanced, fulfilling life. I had to move through those dark and painful times before finally setting out on a journey of recovery. During the first couple of years of this journey, I worked with many different counselors who helped me to get back on my feet. As I moved into a healthier era in my own life, I pursued work as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor while employed at an Asheville area treatment center and had the great fortune of working alongside some fantastic therapists. It was through working with this team and supporting struggling clients that I was inspired to pursue becoming a therapist.

I received my bachelor’s degree in communications from the College of Charleston in 2001. In 2019, I returned to school at Lenoir-Rhyne University and received a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling in 2022. I am dually licensed as a clinical mental health counselor associate (LCMHCA) and a licensed clinical addictions specialist (LCAS). Prior to joining the Winter to Spring Wellness team, I worked in the substance use and mental health treatment field for nearly a decade.

I believe in cultivating a therapeutic relationship that promotes connection, vulnerability, and even humor when appropriate. My approach to therapy is grounded in trauma-informed, person-centered, and attachment perspectives. Drawing inspiration from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), existentialism, and 12-step recovery programs, I have observed that clients who reconnect with their values and life purpose and take meaningful action can achieve sustainable, positive change. I value client feedback and trust their insights into what is essential for their exploration and growth.

Originally from Columbia, SC, I have now called Asheville, NC, home for nearly a decade. While growing up, I spent many weekends backpacking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains and found the abundance of natural beauty and open spaces to be inspirational and healing. I am grateful to have settled in western North Carolina, where I can frequently hike, bike, ride my motorcycle, enjoy live music, and camp with my partner and four-legged co-therapist, Evelyn.