Where are you from and where did you go to school?
I was born and raised in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Currently, I’m in my final year of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s program at DePaul University.
How long have you been working in the mental health field?
I began working in the mental health field in 2022 as a behavior therapist, providing ABA therapy to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This role affirmed my passion for working with children and their families. Watching my clients achieve their goals and make meaningful progress has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
What’s your favorite part about being an intern therapist?
My favorite part of being an intern therapist is having the opportunity to be part of my clients’ support system. I chose this profession because I wanted to create a safe, supportive space where individuals can grow and work toward their goals. Being a therapist is deeply fulfilling—I get to connect with people in such meaningful ways and be part of their journeys.
Were you involved in extracurricular activities in high school or college?
I was on the cross country and track teams in high school. While I didn’t continue competing in college, running remains a big part of my life and is a key piece of my self-care routine.
What do you do for fun?
I love exploring new food and coffee spots, shopping around Chicago, watching movies, and going to live music events. Most of all, I enjoy doing these activities with friends and family—it’s my favorite way to spend quality time with the people I care about.
How do you practice self-care?
Self-care can be challenging at times, but over the years I’ve developed a routine that works well for me. Running is my go to— it helps me de-stress after a long day and keeps me feeling healthy. I also make time for long walks at the end of the week, often catching up with a friend or family member to reflect on the highs and lows of the week.