My work with clients in the mental health field began when I obtained my Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Certification in 2000. After completing my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Houston Downtown, I continued to the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work and earned my Masters of Social Work in 2009.  I have worked with clients with mood disorders, including depression, anxiety and bi-polar diagnosis, utilizing CBT, EMDR to assist the client with the mental health diagnosis.

My  experience includes working with incarcerated persons at Harris County Sheriff’s Office County Jail and substance abuse clients while managing Outpatient Treatments services at local non-profit agencies. While working in both Inpatient and Outpatient treatment programs at area psychiatric hospitals and as a Clinical Team Leader at The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD I have experience with mental health clients both in crisis management and treating with psychotherapy.

I have worked with the LGBTQ+ community since 1991 when I volunteered as an HIV educator conducting pre-test and post-test counseling for persons who were testing. In 2007, I provided substance abuse treatment for LGBT clients through a community program. As a Therapist, I have provided services for transgender clients with transitioning through individual sessions and group therapy assisting them to be their authentic self. I am also a member of WPATH and WPATH SOC 8 Certified Therapist.

Areas of Expertise

  • Mental Health treatment
  • Substance Abuse treatment
  • People with chronic illnesses
  • Clients with Criminal Justice Issues
  • World Professional Assoc. of Transgender Health (WPATH.ORG) she is certified for SOC 8
  • Transgender Clients and other LGBT issues
  • Certified EMDR Therapist
  • EFT Trained Therapist for Couples
  • Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) trained for trauma
  • Completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Training
  • Certified Grief Educator – David Kessler, GRIEF.COM

View my profile on Psychology Today Therapy Directory

Education

  • University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work – MSW 2009
  • University of Houston Downtown -BS – Psychology 2004

Licenses and Certifications

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker – Council Approved Supervisor (LCSW-S)
  • License Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC)
  • Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
  • EMDR Certified Therapist
  • WPATH SOC 8 Certified
  • Certified Grief Educator – David Kessler GRIEF.COM

Professional Awards

  • Recognized as one of the 50 Alumni of UH Graduate College of Social Work, in 50 years, who embodies social justice in the community
  • Awarded Counselor of the Year – Houston Chapter of Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP) – 2009
  • Board Member of the Year – Houston Chapter TAAP – 2010
  • Jim  Keesy Volunteer of the Year for SPECTRUM Conference, Houston Chapter TAAP – 2005, 2009, & 2012
  • Employee of the Year – Houston Area Community Services

Volunteer and Membership