Making it Safer for Sensitive Women to Thrive is My Life’s Mission

Meet Dr. Desiree

Walk the Talk

Hi there,

I’m Desiree (she/her), a proud INFJ and highly-sensitive person (HSP). I’m obsessed with travel because I love learning about cultures, eating tasty food, and enjoying new experiences!

When I’m not planning my next adventure, I love swimming (more like gently floating), bike riding, and reading historical fiction. I also enjoy hanging out with my partner, two sons, and three cats!

My life’s work is helping women, and all highly-sensitive adults, transform pain into power. I’m passionate about social justice, healthy relationships, and everyone having the resources to build a life that works for them. The world is a better place when more people feel loved, safe, and fulfilled.

After my own experiences with burnout, people-pleasing, and perfectionism, I realized that playing “by the rules” left me overwhelmed, disappointed and living a life out of alignment with my needs and personal values. A few wake up calls later (autoimmune/thyroid issues, should I get divorced?), and I was ready to take some big leaps into healing and recalibrating my life.

As a trauma survivor and generational cycle-breaker myself, I have committed to doing my own work to heal, grow, and thrive. Integrity is everything to me so I work hard to practice what I preach and model doing the hard things I encourage others to do. I know I cannot lead you on your journey further or deeper than I have been willing to go on my own. I would be honored to be your guide on your healing journey.

 

I am now able to see clients in New York, Iowa, and all PsyPact states (including GA, FL, PA, and more).

My Guiding Values

  • Integrity

    Safety is created through consistency, reliability, and honesty. Actions speak louder than words so I strive to mean what I say and say what I mean.

  • Social Justice

    Therapy is political & cannot be considered without the greater historical & environmental context of society. Oppression, privilege, what is considered "normal," & access to resources are all impacted by the intersectionality of our identities & where we live & work. I am committed to a lifelong journey of fostering internal & external awareness, knowledge, skill, and advocacy so I may create safety & work toward greater equity.

  • Collaboration

    Power dynamics within the therapeutic relationship as well as society at large matter. We cannot ignore the systemic and environmental contexts in which we all live. I respect and honor your expertise on yourself and your world. I am here as a guide to help you heal, not as an expert to "fix." Collaborative and empowering are my most authentic ways to work with others.

  • Growth

    I know I can only take you as far and as deep as I have gone myself. I am committed to my own ongoing growth & development which increases my capacity to show up fully for you.

  • Curiosity

    Live and let live. Replacing judgemental views & blame with curiosity & giving the benefit of the doubt is a kinder and more effective way to explore the whys, hows, & unknowns.

  • Authenticity

    Transparency feels respectful, collaborative, & caring. I provide honest feedback and will let you know my perspective.

Lifelong Learner

Credentials & Trainings

  • Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Ball State University

    • Emphasis area: Couple & Family therapy

    • Dissertation: Life Satisfaction of College Student-Mothers

  • Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania, Georgia, New York, & Iowa and able to see clients in all PsyPact states

  • Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator (pre-marital couples assessment)

  • Safe Zone facilitator (LGBTQ ally training)

  • EMDR trained

Transforming Pain into Power