Education:
● Master of Social Work – New York University
● Master of Arts in Sociology – CUNY Queens College
● Certificate, Healthcare Economics – Harvard University
● Certificate, Mental Health in Infertility – American Society for Reproductive Medicine
● Certificate, SIFI, Social Work Field Instruction – Adelphi University
Additional Training:
● Autism in Females: Overlooked & Underserved with Theresa Regan, PhD
● Post-Traumatic Growth In Parents Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders with Dr. Victoria Grinman
● Transforming Trauma with Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy with Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. Leanne Campbell
● Post-Partum Psychiatric Disorders with Dr. Ariela Frieder, MD
Specialties:
I specialize in working with high-masking autistic adults, particularly those diagnosed later in life who are navigating the complexities of understanding their identity through this new lens. My work focuses on helping individuals unmask in ways that feel safe and authentic, explore the impact of lifelong masking, and develop strategies for a more sustainable and fulfilling life. In addition to my work with autism, I have extensive experience supporting individuals with OCD, providing nuanced guidance that acknowledges the intersection of neurodivergence and obsessive-compulsive traits. My approach is tailored to high-achieving adults seeking expert-level care that respects their intelligence, autonomy, and lived experience.
Clinical Style & Theoretical Orientation:
My clinical approach is direct, insight-oriented, and tailored to the unique needs of high-masking autistic adults. I focus on the lifelong impact of masking, identity formation, and the emotional complexities that come with a late diagnosis. Drawing from psychodynamic principles, I help patients explore how past experiences have shaped their sense of self and provide strategies for unmasking in ways that feel safe and sustainable. I also integrate Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) to help autistic adults challenge internalized beliefs about how they “should” behave, unlearn rigid social expectations, and develop more self-accepting thought patterns. In my work with OCD, I use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help patients confront intrusive thoughts and compulsions while also applying psychodynamic insights to understand how OCD may function as an attempt to create a sense of control in response to earlier life experiences. By combining structured interventions with depth-oriented exploration, I help patients gain both practical tools and a deeper understanding of themselves.
Lived Identity:
● Age 40+
● Neurodivergent/Neurodivergent-Affirming
● OCD/OCD-Affirming
● Parent (neurodivergent, premature NICU baby)
● First Generation to Graduate College
● Lifelong New Yorker
● Infertility
● Career Changer
● Oldest Sibling
● Mixed Heritage
● INTJ
● LGBTQIA+ Ally