I founded Psychotherapy and Transformational Movement, a Chicago-based practice, and have over 26 years of experience supporting individuals and couples as they heal and grow.
I hold a Master of Arts in Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, where I specialized in Counseling Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), a Clinically Certified Domestic Violence Counselor (CCDVC), and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), credentialed by the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
As an immigrant, I bring a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the uniqueness of each individual’s story. My work is grounded in courage, vulnerability, empathy, and self-compassion—core elements of living wholeheartedly.
Brené Brown’s work has deeply influenced my approach. After discovering her research on shame and vulnerability, I completed training with her team in 2014. I became a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator (CDWF), an experiential approach that supports shame resilience and authentic connection.
In my work with couples, I help partners reconnect on a deeper emotional level and build more secure, meaningful relationships. I have training in approaches such as Gottman Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which help couples improve communication and strengthen emotional connection.
Alongside psychotherapy, I also offer coaching for individuals navigating professional growth, life transitions, and burnout. I completed the Coaching Foundations Program and continue to pursue advanced training.
I am an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), credentialed by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Alongside my psychotherapy practice, I provide professional coaching through BetterUp, supporting individuals navigating career and life transitions, strengthening resilience, and developing greater clarity and confidence. My coaching style is warm and empathic, combined with clear structure and practical steps that help clients move forward with intention.
I also integrate body-centered approaches into my work. I believe emotional experiences are held not only in the mind, but also in the body. Through my training in Body-Mind Psychotherapy (BMP), Nia, and Conscious Embodiment practices, I incorporate movement and sensory awareness as pathways to healing and self-expression.
I am deeply committed to community and advocacy. I founded ARCHER, the American Romanian Coalition for Human and Equal Rights, and served as President until 2025, leading initiatives focused on human rights and equity.
My work has also included involvement with the Clinical Company for Erasing the Distance and the Marjorie Kovler Center, where I provided psychotherapy and clinical supervision. My work with Theater Y deepened my interest in the intersection of art, expression, and psychological healing.
Outside of my professional work, I find joy in spending time with family and friends, traveling, and being in nature. I also enjoy dance, music, and reading, and value walking and movement practices that help me stay grounded and connected. I stay connected to the Romanian community and support women’s rights initiatives.