During my time in the US. Navy, I witnessed many friends struggle with mental health challenges. I wanted to be there for them, to offer support when they needed it most, but I had no idea how to approach someone dealing with deep trauma or even everyday stress. I was going through a tough time myself, dealing with anxiety which I didn’t know how to cope with. After working with several therapists who struggled to fully grasp what I was going through, I realized I wanted to become the kind of counselor I had always searched for—one who could truly see their clients, understand their struggles, and provide the support they deeply need. This decision became a turning point in my life, shaping both my personal growth and my career path.

What sets me apart as a clinician is my background as an immigrant, bringing together a blend of Muslim, Slavic, and American cultures. This unique mix has shaped my perspective and fueled my curiosity about learning from other cultures. I’ve always been eager to understand both our differences and the commonalities we share. Having grown up with diverse cultural influences, I am deeply attuned to the struggles people face, whether it’s related to their upbringing, family dynamics, or other personal challenges.

As a therapist, I work with members of the military, immigrants, refugees, and trauma survivors. My areas of specialization include the treatment of anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. Whether it’s helping someone navigate the complexities of military life, supporting individuals adjusting to a new culture, or guiding trauma survivors through their healing journey, my goal is always to offer compassionate care that empowers my clients to thrive.

My process with clients is deeply personalized and centered on building a strong, trusting relationship. Once we’ve established a foundation of trust, we work together to identify their goals and the specific issues they want to address. My aim is to empower clients by giving them

tools to manage their mental health and build resilience. After working with me clients can expect to gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and reactions. With this newfound self-awareness, they will be more capable of responding to challenges with resilience instead of falling into reactivity and overwhelm.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about playing guitar and piano, as well as enjoying hands-on activities like paint by numbers. I also find joy in babysitting, which allows me to connect with others in a meaningful way. Additionally, I compete in collegiate ballroom dancing, which combines my love for movement and challenge. When I have the time, I love to go on road trips to explore different states and discover new places along the way.

Specialties:

• Anxiety & Depression
• OCD
• Trauma