About Carmelle
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” – Maya Angelou

MY MISSION
Hi, I’m Carmelle.


How I Can Help
Taking The First Step
Deciding to start therapy can feel uncomfortable. Especially, if this is something that you are doing for the first time. Many clients are curious about their therapists, and it’s normal. Here are some of the questions that I get asked regularly by new clients.
Why a Virtual Practice? I’m worried that I won’t get the same quality of services as in-person therapy.
2020 presented some unforeseen adjustments for us all. What started out as a short-term transition to a virtual practice to honor the health and safety of my clients and myself, has now become a longer-term practice style. It’s been meaningful to witness how the creativity and flow of virtual sessions have enhanced the quality of therapy experienced by my clients. With the flexibility of scheduled times without commute and clients having access to comfort objects in their own environment while engaging in in-depth work, it’s regularly confirmed that where there’s cultivated space for safety and vulnerability, healing happens anywhere. And for those who have previously avoided their own environment, online virtual therapy has been an opportunity to engage in exposure exercises that have helped them: reorient themselves to their spaces, take notice to opportunities for healthier boundary setting; and courageously tend to unmet needs that contribute to their sense of loneliness or discomfort with open space when alone.
Why did you decide to become a therapist and how do you sit and listen to people’s problems all day?
Well, I don’t really do this all day, every day, but I know what you mean. It’s funny because looking back, becoming a Social Worker and Therapist seems like it was inevitable. Long before I realized I was drawn to do this work, I was passionate about it. You know that saying you’re told as a child, “Don’t talk to strangers”? Well, that never really worked out for me. For as long as I can remember, I’ve often encountered strangers who unexpectedly felt open to sharing their stories with me. I’ve always been inclined to carefully listen, reflectively respond, and never take for granted their vulnerability. Nor how impactful presence can be. From my own adverse beginnings, I value the courage it takes for anyone to survive, and I call that resiliency. We may not always get to choose the conditions that we’re subjected to in life, but we don’t have to be devalued by them either. My favorite moment in session with clients is when they begin to get a glimpse of a life that they never before imagined was possible for themselves. This makes the work that I do all the more worth it.
What inspires you to continue to do this work and how are you sure that you can help me?
We can never have too many healthy human beings in this world. As a Certified Trauma Expert, and Certified Enneagram Coach, with vital years in Private Practice, and a history of having worked at some of the top mental health facilities (which includes a Level I Trauma Center), I have countless trauma-informed and crisis work experience. I remain inspired by the narratives of clients and their courage to work through pain and move past challenges. I can help you, because I know what it takes to work through pain like your quality of life depends on it. I’m a fierce challenger and advocate of a Therapist, and in our work together, I will see you, I will hear you, and show you what you were capable of all along… living in wholeness and experiencing growth.
How are you with talking about religion or spirituality, if that’s important to me?
I love it! I want you to bring your entire self into session, because there I will meet you and we will do powerful work together. In my personal life, my reverence for the spiritual journey and the value of exploring inner depths also contributes to how I show up as a Therapist. I would be honored to hold space for you as you explore the depths of your being and your experiences. You can also expect me to provide support on how to integrate it all- the experiences of your mind, body, soul, and spirit.

ARE YOU READY?