Psychologist in Washington, DC
Who I Am
I am a gay, non-binary (they/them) Army veteran psychologist.
Becoming a Therapist
My start in psychology was as a peer-counselor at the United States Military Academy at West Point while in college.
In that position, I supported new cadets while they transitioned from civilian to Soldier under incredibly demanding circumstances. I was skilled at the job and enjoyed it.
When I left West Point, I knew I wanted to be a psychologist. I spent 5 years in the Army, including 2 combat deployments, before entering graduate school to begin my journey to become a psychologist.
I saw smart and capable people in the Army repeatedly shut down their emotions to accomplish the mission.
I witnessed those same traumatized people struggling to make sense of their fear, anger, and hurt months or even years later. I saw the emotional pain they endured in the interim.
I also experienced life as a gay, non-binary person in the military as the organization moved from open discrimination towards greater inclusion of queer people.
My Army experiences cemented my desire to become a psychologist to work with people who’ve had difficult or traumatic experiences, especially LGBTQIA+ people.
My Mission as a Therapist
I imagine a world where most therapy clients walk out of sessions having had a transformative experience leading towards a more meaningful and authentic life full of joy, purpose, and connection.
My Key Qualities as a Therapist
Because emotions are crucial for healing, I support and listen to you on a deep level. I listen with empathy and compassion to what you say beneath your actual words. I’m always careful to be respectful in my responses to you.
While I aim to be a master psychotherapist, I’m also practical and down to earth. We are both humans with a range of positive and negative experiences in life. The only difference between you and me is that I have specific training and experience in helping others.
I’m one of only 2 therapists trained and practicing Emotion Focused Therapy in the DC area, to the best of my knowledge.
While I love to work with all types of people, I’m deeply committed to supporting fellow LGBTQIA+ community members on their journeys of healing and growth.
I have a profound understanding of difficult and traumatic life experiences due to my training, experience with clients, and personal experiences.
Formal Education
Doctor of Philosophy, Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
Master of Science, Clinical Psychology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland
Bachelor of Science, American History, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York
Professional Psychology Memberships
American Psychological Association (APA)
International Society for Emotion-Focused Therapy (ISEFT)
Counseling Experience
Before entering private practice, I spent 6 years as an Army Psychologist in Kuwait, Maryland, Washington state, and Washington, DC.
During these years, I both worked in and managed clinics supporting Service members.
I provided therapy to high demand, high performing populations, including Special Operations Forces, Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel, hospital staff, and first responders.
I provided therapy to and advocated for trans* clients when the military healthcare system began to move towards equitable treatment of and healthcare for trans* Service members.
Publications and Presentations
I have published papers on mindfulness and presented on providing culturally competent care to transgender Service members.
Professional Licenses
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
A Bit About My Life Outside of My Therapist Office
I live in cohousing, a form of intentional community.
I roast my own coffee because the fresher it is, the better it is. I also love to cook. I’m interested in locally sourcing food and protecting the natural environment.
I love being physically active. I play soccer, bike-commute, and practice high intensity, functional fitness.
If you think you may want to work with me in therapy, you can book a 20-minute inquiry call to find out more.
Or, you’re ready to get started, you can book your first appointment with me.