I believe life is a continuous process of change, sometimes unfolding gently and other times with sudden shifts. To move with life’s flow, we need both action and stillness—moments to reflect, nurture ourselves, and stay open. Our connections with others and the world around us profoundly shape our experience; relationships can bring healing as well as hurt. When difficulties disconnect us from our inner worth, or from the world surrounding us, therapy offers an opportunity not just for crisis support but also for deeper self-understanding. It can help us reflect on cultural and personal influences, explore what sustains us, and move toward living authentically with presence, self-compassion, and commitment. 

My therapeutic approach is rooted in an appreciation for diversity of experience and expression. I have a person centered and relational orientation.  I cultivate trauma informed, culturally sensitive lenses.  I pay attention to attachment experiences, body wisdom and social influences and aim to support my clients find their own way. I see therapy as a collaborative space where clients connect to all their parts, their strengths, stories, and inner wisdom, sometimes reaching beyond words through art therapy. I hold a dual Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Mental Health Counseling from Lewis & Clark College, and another one in International Peace and Conflict Resolution/International Development from American University. My background includes strengthening community dialogue and health services, inpatient psychiatry, cross-cultural work and being a stay home mother.

As a Romanian-American bilingual counselor, and a mother of two teenage boys (and two cats) who has lived, learned and worked in different cultures, I bring both professional and personal experience to my practice. I find joy in family, travel, art, water, music, dance, and exploring spiritual traditions.