Valeo: to be strong; to have power or capacity; to be worthy

Valeo is a Latin verb meaning “to be strong,” “to be worthy,” and “to have power.” It is the root of familiar words such as value, valid, prevail, and convalesce.

I believe people are capable of more than what anxiety, doubt, or difficult experiences allows them to see. Therapy is not about eliminating discomfort or waiting to feel ready—it’s about choosing to step toward what’s important, despite feeling uncertain of the outcome.

Since 2007, I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults in both school and outpatient settings. My focus is on helping people navigate anxiety, OCD, panic, mood concerns, and life stressors so they can show up for the people they care about, in the way that they want to. My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth, while also being direct and focused on progress.

I use evidence-based approaches, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These approaches are designed to help teach your brain to tolerate inevitable uncertainty and take meaningful action, rather than remaining stuck in avoidance or overthinking.

When working with children and teens, parents are a critical part of the treatment. Anxiety and OCD don’t just affect one person—they shape patterns within the entire family. I will work closely with you to shift these patterns, reduce accommodation, and support lasting change. Even when a child is hesitant or resistant, meaningful progress can begin through parent-focused work.

We can’t always control the circumstances going on around us.
What we can do is keep moving.
In the direction of our values.
And if you aren’t sure whether you are capable or worthy yet, I’ll believe it enough for both of us.