My therapeutic approach is primarily grounded in Person-Centered Theory. I believe that a strong, authentic therapeutic relationship is essential to meaningful change and that clients are often the best experts on their own experiences. I use a collaborative, non-directive approach that allows clients to take the lead in exploring their thoughts, emotions, and experiences while I provide support, empathy, and guidance throughout the therapeutic process. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and accepted. I work alongside them as they develop greater self-awareness, identify their strengths, and discover solutions that feel meaningful and authentic to them. I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Child-Centered Play Therapy from the University of North Texas. My master’s-level training provided me with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in individual and group settings. I also received specialized training in Child-Parent Relationship Training and Child-Teacher Relationship Training and gained experience supporting children within the public school system.

I went on to earn my doctoral degree from Chatham University and completed my doctoral internship at the Minnesota Sex Offender Program, where I gained experience working with individuals presenting with a variety of clinical diagnoses and concerns. I currently work full-time at Torrance State Hospital, where I continue to specialize in the assessment and treatment of problematic sexual behaviors in both individual and group settings. My clinical experience has strengthened my ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, with varied needs and presenting concerns, while providing compassionate, individualized care. Adams, A., Archibald, A., Akibar, A. & Niemann, Y. F. ‘Coming out’ in context: Social support, mental health, and making one’s sexual orientation known in Latinx college students [Manuscript submitted for publication]. Department of Psychology, University of North Texas.