Unscripted Counseling

Mental Health & Substance Use Counseling

About

In my sophomore year of college, I worked as a student assistant for physical and occupational therapists at a university hospital. At the time, I was preparing to become a physical therapist, and I loved my job. It gave me a strong sense of purpose helping improve the quality of life of others.

Over time, though, I noticed I was drawn to supporting patients beyond physical rehabilitation alone. I wanted to be a companion—someone who could sit with them and listen to their stories. Many patients were isolated in their hospital rooms, feeling confused and overwhelmed by injuries or progressive illness. I felt so compelled by this desire to support people emotionally that I changed course and pursued a degree in mental health counseling.

Since then, I’ve had a variety of experiences supporting others and learning how to listen in meaningful ways. I’ve worked as a wilderness therapy guide, applied behavior analysis technician, outpatient mental health and substance use counselor, and community therapist serving individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, among other roles. Across these settings, I’ve learned the importance of listening without an agenda—allowing space for someone to express what they need, without interference. From what I’ve observed, this forms the basic groundwork of a therapeutic relationship.

In our work together, my goal is to offer a psychotherapy experience where you are listened to non-judgmentally, without pressure to be perfect, justify yourself, or follow a script.