About Me

I started my first job as a staff psychologist right after residency and, at the same time, gave private practice a shot. That first attempt didn’t go well—it flopped, honestly. I felt pretty defeated and frustrated, so I threw myself into my day job, hoping it would be enough. But over time, I realized that no job title, paycheck, or fancy organization could give me the career fulfillment I was craving. What I really wanted didn’t exist—so I decided I had to build it myself.

I spent some tough years working in a government job that I won’t name. The caseload was overwhelming, the pay wasn’t great, and the red tape made it hard to actually help people. On top of that, I didn’t feel connected to the patient population, and everything about the job felt misaligned with my values. After investing 15 years in education, training, and multiple moves (plus the mountain of student debt), I still felt underappreciated and stuck.

When my husband and I moved back to Texas from Ohio, I started a new job. But at the same time, I began building an online private practice on the side—this time with a clearer vision. Over 11 months, I balanced both roles, steadily growing a solo practice that felt more like me. I worked through challenges step by step, creating a brand and structure that reflected the kind of care I wanted to give and the kind of patients I truly enjoyed working with.

That solo practice eventually turned into a group practice—now called Sugar Land Psychological Associates. I hired a team of contractors and took the leap to leave my full-time job. It turns out, even working with insurance, I could make three times more an hour than I had before. But more importantly, I could finally work on my terms. I chose when and where I worked, saw patients who aligned with my values, and practiced in a way that felt natural and fulfilling.

The change was life-giving. I felt less stressed and resentful, and I had more energy and presence to offer my patients. Outside of work, I had more time to travel, connect with loved ones, and pursue the things that bring me joy. In many ways, this lifestyle mirrors the balance and intention I hope to help my patients find in their own lives.