Expertise Specialty Services: SUD, Trauma & Gender‑Specific Care
I specialize in treating all individuals impacted by substance use disorders (SUD), with particular expertise in men’s issues and trauma‑informed care. Research indicates that nearly half of adults with a substance use disorder also have a co‑occurring mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder underscoring the need for integrated treatment approaches that address both addiction and mental health simultaneously.
Statistics further show that trauma is highly prevalent among individuals with SUD, with many studies finding that a significant proportion of people in SUD treatment have experienced traumatic events in their lifetime, including Post‑Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Estimates suggest that PTSD co‑occurs with SUD at rates between 26% and 52% in clinical populations, highlighting the importance of trauma‑sensitive treatment frameworks.
This intersection of trauma, mental health, and addiction requires specialized, clinically rigorous care — and my training, experience, and evidence‑based approach are tailored to meet these complex needs effectively.
Qualifications
With an academic foundation in Behavioral Health and Community Sciences and a Master’s in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, a CACREP accredited and nationally ranked program, I bring advanced, evidence‑based training to every client interaction. The CRMHC Program is proudly listed among the nation’s Top 50 Rehabilitation Counseling programs by U.S. News & World Report, ranking #18 in the U.S. and #1 in Florida. Combined with a 3.94 GPA, this reflects deep clinical proficiency and dedication to excellence.
Over 13 years of direct experience, I’ve worked collaboratively with clients, families, and interdisciplinary medical teams in Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Eating Disorder (ED) primary treatment settings — prioritizing client safety, stabilization, and holistic care. My work involves ongoing assessment of acute medical and psychiatric needs, development of community transitions, and connections to acute and outpatient resources.
I have also contributed over a decade to leadership committees focused on safety, strategic planning, and innovation in clinical programming, applying evidence‑based practices (EBP) to enhance treatment outcomes across diverse populations.
Why This Matters
Substance use recovery is not one‑size‑fits‑all. High rates of co‑occurring mental health issues and trauma histories among SUD clients mean successful treatment must be comprehensive, integrated, and individualized. My clinical approach honors the complexity of these dual challenges and empowers individuals through:
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SUD recovery strategies grounded in neuroscience and evidence
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Trauma‑informed therapy
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Gender‑specific support for men
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Collaboration with medical and psychiatric professionals
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Seamless transition planning from acute to outpatient care