I founded Become YOUR Happy, LLC in Cranberry Township, PA, after many years of successful practice in the DC Metro area. My mission has always been simple: to help people thrive — to reconnect with their strengths, find balance, and rediscover joy. I believe every person who walks into my office already holds the potential for healing; my role is to help you access it.
Therapy is most effective when you feel truly comfortable and understood. I bring compassion, curiosity, and evidence-based tools to support your process, whether we’re exploring the impact of trauma, improving communication, or navigating life’s challenges.
I hope this site answers some of your questions. If you’d like to learn more or see if we might be a good fit, please feel free to reach out — I’d love to hear from you. contact me.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a clinical member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).
Unlike many therapists trained primarily from an individual psychology perspective, my background is in systems theory, which means I see people in the context of their relationships, environments, and communities. Problems rarely exist in isolation — they are part of a larger pattern, and by understanding those patterns, change becomes possible.
Below is a video about LMFTs training and perspective and how it may help you.
My perspective on problems (for an individual, couple, or family) involves examining all the various influences that the individual, couple, or family may have in context with one another. Some of these influences include the family, school, society, and cultural system, though obviously there are many more.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping many people heal from experiences of trauma — whether large or small. I have trained extensively in Somatic Experiencing®, developed by Peter Levine, a body-based approach that supports the nervous system’s natural ability to restore balance after stress or trauma. This work helps clients tune into their physical sensations and gently process what has been held in the body.
I also draw inspiration from the work of Bessel van der Kolk, Lisa Ferentz, and other leaders in trauma research. One belief I hold at the heart of my practice is that we are innately wired to heal — sometimes we just need a safe, compassionate space and a guiding hand to reconnect with that ability.
Build confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being.
Process pain in a safe, supportive environment and move toward lasting recovery.
Help couples and families communicate, resolve conflict, and deepen connection.
Support your journey toward balance, peace, and a life of meaning and joy.
I believe that, deep down, people know what is best for them. My job is to help uncover that inner wisdom. Together, we’ll explore the roots of what’s troubling you and identify realistic steps toward healing and growth.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in empathy. I hold space for pain and hope alike — and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you as you heal.
After earning a B.S. in Family Studies and Psychology, I completed an M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Maryland. My post-graduate experience included two years of supervised clinical training providing therapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups, followed by national licensure as an LMFT. During graduate school I also worked at a lab doing attachment theory research.
I maintain an active membership in the AAMFT and participate in ongoing professional education each year to maintain my Marriage and Family Therapy Licensure. Some of my additional training included a three-year program in Somatic Experiencing® and numerous workshops in trauma recovery, mindfulness, and relationship dynamics. I have also done training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) along with other attachment oriented trainings. You can read more about Somatic Experiencing® by clicking here.
I have been providing therapy for almost three decades. Before private practice, I worked in community mental health and managed care, where I supported clients in a wide range of settings — from residential and day programs to outpatient and family support services (including supervising therapists doing at-home therapy and foster care). I have also worked on the managed care side for insurance companies, working with doctors and inpatient facilities and detox programs. These experiences shaped my deep respect for the resilience of the human spirit and my belief that healing is always possible. You can read more about my areas of expertise by clicking here.
If you’re searching for a place where you can be seen, heard, and supported without judgment, I would be honored to connect. Healing takes courage — but you don’t have to do it alone.
