I am a Maryland licensed clinical professional counselor who specializes in working with traumatized populations. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Johns Hopkins University with my Masters degree in Counseling in 2009. I am an ACE Master Presenter in the state of Maryland and a national HOPE facilitator and technical assistance provider (the first in Maryland!). I worked at a non-profit for 10 years, where I served as the Director of Education and Training. During my time there, I also collaborated closely with the Harford County Child Advocacy Center as a therapist, supervisor, clinical coordinator, and member of the multidisciplinary team. I have presented at local, national, and international conferences for over 15 years on topics related to trauma and advocacy. 

In addition to my clinical and training work, I am a research and training consultant for groups interested in comprehensive treatment for populations affected by trauma. I am the co-author, author, and co-editor of theoretical and empirical peer-reviewed journal articles and several books, largely focused on working with traumatized and populations in need. I have worked closely with local health departments, non-profit organizations, and communities across the nation as they work to increase capacity to tackle complex and intersecting issues, such as the reduction and prevention of suicide, substance use, overdose, the impact and occurrence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the promotion of positive childhood and adult experiences. I am currently proud to serve at the Director of Evaluation and Quality Improvement at the HOPE National Resource Center and as a Board member for Amplified Change.

My “why” is to create a compassionate world so that all can feel seen. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can and that perfection is not only highly overrated, but completely unnecessary. I specialize in supporting children, teens, families, and adults impacted by traumatic experiences through therapy, activities to increase awareness and compassion in communities, and trainings for helping professionals.

I am a proud mom and feel most whole when I am surrounded by the people I love. My favorite things to do include routing for the Baltimore Orioles, eating crabs, learning, traveling, and trying new things. I believe in practicing kindness and compassion in as many aspects of my journey as possible.