Living with chronic illness can change the way you move through the world. You may look capable on the outside while privately carrying pain, fatigue, fear, grief, or the constant pressure to keep going.
I understand what it means to live in that in-between place where your body needs care, but life still expects you to show up. As a therapist, parent, and person living with multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease, I know how complicated it can feel to manage your own health while continuing to care for your work, your relationships, and the people who depend on you.
I created Compass Counseling and Wellness for people who need therapy that understands the emotional impact of chronic illness, autoimmune conditions, and invisible symptoms. My work is grounded in both clinical training and lived experience, with a focus on helping you feel heard, supported, and less defined by what your body is going through.
You do not need to explain every detail here. You do not need to prove that your pain is real. Therapy with me is a place where you are met with understanding, honesty, and practical support for the life you are living now.
Professional background
I am a licensed psychotherapist and the founder of Compass Counseling and Wellness. My clinical work focuses on the psychological impact of chronic illness, autoimmune disease, medical trauma, anxiety, grief, identity changes, and the stress of living with ongoing health challenges.
Before founding Compass Counseling and Wellness, I built my work around helping people navigate complex emotional experiences with compassion and clarity. Many of my clients are used to being responsible for everyone else. They are professionals, parents, caregivers, and high-functioning people who may be holding much more than others realize.
My style is direct, collaborative, and deeply human. I believe therapy should give you room to process what has happened while also helping you build tools for the reality of your day-to-day life.
Education and professional experience
- Master’s degree in school counseling, with 18 additional credits in mental health, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, May 2012
- Bachelor of Arts in business management, minor in psychology, University of Tampa, Tampa, FL, May 2010
- Associate of Arts in general studies, St. Petersburg College, Tarpon Springs, FL, May 2008
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Florida
- Licensed Professional Counselor, Oregon
- Qualified Supervisor, Florida
- EMDR Certified Therapist
- Founder of Compass Counseling and Wellness Inc.
- Eight years of clinical experience
- Specialized focus on chronic illness, autoimmune conditions, and the emotional impact of living with ongoing health concerns
- Personal experience living with multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease
Therapy tailored to your needs
Therapy with me is not one-size-fits-all. We begin with your story, your body, your responsibilities, and the way your symptoms or life experiences are affecting your sense of self.
I use evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness and somatic strategies, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Depending on your needs, our work may focus on processing medical trauma, managing anxiety, coping with uncertainty, rebuilding identity, setting boundaries, or making space for grief without getting stuck inside it.
I also pay attention to the bigger picture. Chronic illness can affect your relationships, your work, your parenting, your confidence, and the way you relate to your own body. Together, we look at what you are carrying, what is no longer sustainable, and what kind of support may help you feel more grounded and connected to yourself again.
Start your healing journey today
If you are looking for therapy that understands chronic illness from both a professional and personal perspective, I would be honored to support you. You are welcome here whether you are newly diagnosed, adjusting to long-term illness, grieving who you used to be, or simply tired of holding everything together.
Reaching out can be a meaningful first step toward feeling more understood, supported, and steady in your life. If working together feels like the right fit, I invite you to reach out today.