More About Me
Self disclosure (in appropriate amounts) can help build rapport, but is not something I take much time in sessions to do unless asked direct questions. And even then, I am careful what I share because the bond between therapist and client is truly professional in nature. But I am human, and I’m comfortable sharing a few things about what allows me to consistently hold space for clients. When I’m not in sessions or learning how to be a better therapist, I am fulfilling introverted or extroverted needs. I spend time with my differing communities to support my spiritual and social health. I exercise at the gym or through hiking to care for my physical body and to regulate difficult emotions. I recharge with reading, meditation, or good old fashioned binge watching shows. I create with cooking, baking, gardening, or writing.
Why Be a Therapist?
When I was 15, I struggled with identity issues, feelings of belonging, and emotional dis-regulation. This among other behavioral struggles prompted the idea that I start seeing a therapist. That therapist provided me with the active listening, validation, empathy, understanding, and suggestions I couldn’t receive anywhere else. The trust we built and the ideas I took from her truly changed my life. I discovered that I wanted to do that for others, whatever that looked like. This started my journey in declaring my undergraduate major in Psychology, taking specialty topics classes in theory, participating as a research assistant, and eventually applying to graduate school. My time since starting with that therapist has not been all uphill, because life throws you twists and turns. And my educational path has not in any way been linear. I truly believe I wouldn’t be the therapist I am without my own adversities, continued therapy, and soul searching. It has been an honor to help others grow and feel understood in the way I have.
What does northern emerald mean?
The name Northern Emerald comes from my connection to dragonflies. Decades ago, I lost a close family member, and was told by other family that she was nearby when dragonflies were around. I took to this spiritual representation and have felt connected to dragonflies ever since. On my first day as a graduate intern at Ashley Addiction Treatment, I stepped onto the campus and immediately noticed the abundance of dragonflies. This was a sign to me that I was, without a doubt, in the right place. Upon opening my practice, I wanted to incorporate her honor in my name and logo. Northern Emerald is a species of dragonfly. This name, and the colors in my logo are also a representation of my Irish roots. Many pictures on my website are actually scenes from a trip to Ireland.