My Philosophy

The Tree of Life is more than a symbol. It is a reminder that we are rooted in our experiences, continually growing, and capable of renewal. Just like a tree, we are shaped by the seasons of our lives: our challenges, relationships, and the ways we have learned to survive. Therapy is the space where we begin to tend to those roots- with curiosity, compassion, and courage.


Together, we explore your story from a whole-person perspective -mind, body and spirit- using insight, creativity, and compassion to reconnect you to your authentic self. My goal is to help you create lasting change by understanding the 'why' behind your struggles and learning new ways of being that align with your values and self-worth.


~ Tree of Life Counseling & Art Therapy, LLC ~
~913 First Colonial Road, Suite 201 Virginia Beach, VA 23454 ~757-679-5553~ 
Copyright 2016 All Rights Reserved.

        Tree of Life Counseling & Art Therapy


​Grounded in compassion and authenticity, I combine traditional psychotherapy, mindfulness, creative therapies and somatic (of the body) education. Our work together honors every part of your story- past, present- helping you move from survival to connection, and from self-doubt to self-trust. Whether we use conversation, art mindfulness or guided reflection, sessions are experiential and paced with care. My role is to show up for you, even when things get hard. I will continue to offer guidance, curiosity, and gentle accountability as you grow. 


"Healing begins with the understanding that self-protection is learning how to take a pause between what you feel and how you react." ~ Brianna Wiest


In my work, I focus on helping you gently uncover the patterns that keep you stuck- the conditioned responses, nervous system habits, and protective strategies that once kept you safe, but may now hold you back. Together, we explore your story from a while-person perspective- mind, body, and spirit- using insight, creativity, and compassion to reconnect you to your authentic self. My goal is to help you create lasting change by understanding the "why" behind your struggles and learning new ways of being that align with your values and self-worth.


My Approach

Our sessions may include conversation, mindfulness, body awareness, and the possibility of creative therapies- depending on what feels comfortable and meaningful to you. I bring an experiential focus, helping you explore your internal world through reflection and creative expression. 

As we work together, I will support you in:

  • Understanding your autonomic nervous system and emotional responses.
  • Healing trauma and burnout through awareness and self-compassion.
  • Exploring body image and your relationship with self.
  • Building healthy boundaries rooted in worthiness rather than guilt.
  • Developing resilience, vulnerability, and self-trust.

I believe therapy is a collaborative process. I will show up fully, even when things feel difficult. I will help you meet resistance with curiosity and care, not judgement. Together, we will work toward clarity, balance, and growth.



~ Individual Therapy in Virginia Beach , VA~ Couples Therapy in Virginia Beach, VA~ Adolescent Therapy in Virginia Beach, VA~ Art Therapy in Virginia Beach, VA~