Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Gastonia, NC covered by Aetna

I believe all people have a deep desire to be heard and understood. Creating safe spaces to explore the issues of life is what I am passionate about. I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals. My goal is to be a partner with you on your journey toward healing your relationships. As a marriage and family therapist, I offer a compassionate insightful perspective as a tool for growth. I have experience working with people who struggle with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, parenting issues, and life transition stressors. I enjoy working with diverse populations, and in navigating a new path toward healing.

I hold two advanced degrees, Master of Social Work and Master of Science in Nursing Education. I integrate evidence-based modalities and techniques into my work based upon your needs. Some of the modalities I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, and Somatic Experiencing. I was a holistic nurse for 15 years assisting clients with maximizing their physical, psychological, and/or spiritual health. As a licensed clinical social worker, I have worked with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, complex trauma, and early childhood neglect or abuse. My clients are adults including those of diverse cultural, ethnic, and/or religious backgrounds.

My journey to becoming a provider has given me a unique perspective on resilience and growth. I immigrated to the United States from Rwanda in my early twenties, learned English from the ground up, and worked my way through multiple degrees while gaining diverse life experience. This background helps me connect with clients from all walks of life and understand the challenges of navigating complex systems.

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) dedicated to supporting individuals, families, youth, and children in achieving emotional wellness and personal growth. With a strong clinical foundation and diverse experience across outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings, I provide comprehensive, client-centered care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

I earned my BSN from Duke University in 2014, my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) degree from Gonzaga University in 2017, and my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) degree from Johns Hopkins University in 2020. I also completed a Plant-Based Nutrition certification through Cornell University. My background spans both community and mental health care, including experience at a large community health center in Washington, DC, where I worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life circumstances. My foundation in family medicine has given me extensive experience caring for people with co-occurring mental health and complex medical conditions. I also have significant experience supporting individuals who have experienced trauma and strive to provide compassionate, whole-person care that meets each patient's unique needs.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three years of outpatient therapy experience who works with teens and adults navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I also have experience working with OCD and neurodivergence. I believe therapy should feel supportive, practical, and tailored to you. Reaching out can be the hardest part, so I’m really glad you’re here. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and able to handle what life throws your way.

I believe therapy can have a great impact on one's life. If one is motivated, one can resolve problems, feel better, and address past hardships. I have over thirty years of experience helping my clients achieve their goals in a supportive and safe environment. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I received my undergraduate degree from Stanford University and my Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. I have resided in both the United States and Latin America. I look forward to working with each and every client, in order that they may reach their happiest self possible.