Professional Disclosure Statement

“This is a wonderful day, I have never seen this one before.”
                                                                                 ― Maya Angelou

Qualifications:

I am in the process of completing a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Counselor Education from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, where I will graduate in December 2018. I completed my practicum and internship at Eastwood Middle School in Washington Township. In 2012, I completed my Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College Chicago, where I studied creative writing with a concentration in writing for young adults.

I have over five years of experience working alongside young people, including students newly arrived to the United States and individuals with a wide range of disabilities. I am also a member of the American School Counseling Association, and will receive my licensure in December.

I have worked extensively in emergency outreach, intervening in crisis situations with clients from all ages and backgrounds. I am the mother of two sons, one with severe autism spectrum disorder, and empathize with the many layers and challenges of parenting.

Therapeutic Approach:

My primary therapeutic method is humanistic, being both client-centered and existential. I believe that my clients have the ability to achieve, or overcome, anything they set their mind to. My clients receive my unconditional support and willingness to understand. I am focused, present and dedicated to guiding my clients away from suffering.

My background and earlier studies consist of holistic approaches to modern day issues. I have undergone training in the areas of meditation, mindfulness and concentration. Being a large proponent of the art community, and having studied art in depth as an undergraduate student, I also appreciate the role of creativity and self-expression within the process of healing and finding peace within the self.

Many of my methods are based on Eastern philosophies, while also respecting the value of all spiritual practices. My greatest sources of inspiration in this area are Thích Nhất Hạnh, Yoshimoto Ishin and Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama.

Confidentiality

All information shared in counseling sessions will be held as confidential as required in the Health Insurance Portability Act (HIPPA). As your counselor, I am required to break confidentiality in the following instances: 1.) in cases of child abuse or neglect, or elder abuse or neglect; 2.) imminent harm to yourself or others; 3.) if you sign a release of information to coordinate care with another healthcare provider or to bill for insurance purposes; 4.) if a court order were presented from a judge.

Ethical Concerns

I abide by the ASCA Code of Ethics: (https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/Ethics/EthicalStandards2016.pdf).

Although clients are encouraged to discuss any concerns with me, you may file a complaint with the organization below should you feel I am in violation of any of these codes.

American School Counselor Association
1101 King St., Suite 310
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 683-ASCA
Toll-free: (800) 306-4722
Fax: (703) 997-7572

asca@schoolcounselor.org