Physical Disability

Coping with partial hearing loss, tinnitus, or chronic health challenges lead to fatigue and overwhelm. Irritation sets in and others don't seem to fully understand you. I will work with you to feel empowered and discover coping strategies to let you lead the life you desire.

As someone with lived experience with a physical disability, I can support you on your journey from acceptance to adaptation. We will explore the beliefs about yourself that might be holding you back and help you reclaim your identity and the life you want to live.

Director of Psychology, Neuropsychology & Behavioral Medicine Encompass Health Rehab Hospital, with current privileges. O’Donnell, P. J. (2013). Psychological Effects of a Strength-Based Intervention Among Inpatients in Rehabilitation for Pain and Disability. (Doctoral dissertation). ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. ISBN: 978-1-303-53639-7

I have been visually impaired since infancy. Through my personal and professional experience with disability, I help clients adjust psychologically to lifelong or acquired disabilities and live well in an ableist world. I have worked extensively both with young adults with disabilities needing help navigating the grownup world and with older adults with recently acquired disabilities.

As a therapist with a physical disability (hearing loss), I know how important accessibility is and how painful it can be when it is denied. In addition to lived experience, up-to-date trainings and conferences, and reading Disability Justice authors and advocates keep me in the loop.

As a therapist with a physical disability, I am intimately aware of the interpersonal struggles and life dynamics associated with living with a disability. I will be able to offer a unique perspective and compassion that only comes from experience. Although I know that your disability does not define you, I will be able to understand and appreciate the specific challenges and opportunities that present themselves to people with disabilities.

I have experience in case management as well as individual therapy and caregiver support for individuals and families coping with physical disabilities. Whether a developmental disability or traumatic injury, I have supported client and families during times of change and throughout the lifespan. I have worked in hospital and agency setting as well as telehealth.

Whether your symptoms are outwardly noticeable or invisible, they are often accompanied by shame and a mistrust of the body. Together we can work toward finding self-compassion, gratitude, and kindness toward yourself and your body - to feel at home in your body.

I believe that every client with a physical disability deserves a therapist who truly understands the unique experience of navigating a world that is not designed to meet their individual needs.

We specialize in serving the Children with Life Limiting Illness and Children's Extensive Support population and their families. This includes children and families with chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities, and other special needs.

I am fluent in American Sign Language and provide culturally sensitive therapy to Deaf, DeafBlind, hard-of-hearing, late deafened, and Deaf+ individuals. I also have experience working with individuals who have experienced blindness, mobility issues, chronic pain/chronic medical conditions, traumatic brain injuries, and other physical disabilities. I advocate for disability justice and stand with the fight for access and inclusion.

As the primary carer for an adult child with multiple disabling chronic illnesses, I understand the secret struggles that those with physical disabilities can face. Everything from having enough spoons to face the next challenge to the internalize ableism that can sometimes torture you. I provide telehealth services so you can access therapy from anywhere you feel comfortable in a safe and accepting space.