How my journey began…
I began my journey at Rivier University in 2004, where where obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice in 2009. I went on to graduate from the University of New Hampshire with a Master of Social Work in 2016. I also took several courses concentrating on addiction issues. I obtained my LICSW in 2018. Recently in June 2024 I also obtained my LCSW in the state of Indiana.
I completed my first year Social Work internship at The Center for Eating Disorders Management from 2014-2015 and second year Social Work internship at Greater Nashua Mental Health Center 2015-2016. Upon graduation in 2016, I was offered a therapist position at GNMHC. There I also worked as the liaison for the Department of Children Youth and Families for the Southern Disctrict of NH. Over time, my role at GNMHC grew and I began working as the Coordinator of the Mental Health in Schools Program where I worked in 3 Nashua area schools mental health services and overseeing the program as a whole. I also continued to provide DCYF liasion services such a evaluating all children who were removed from their family home due to any DCYF crisis and may need therapeutic services.
In 2020 COVID-19 the lack of in person services being provided caused increased difficulties for the ADHD community. This sparked the inspiration to open ADHD Innovations, which opened in September 2020. From 2019-2021 I enjoyed teaching social work courses at Rivier University as an adjunct professor.
Over the years I have participated in multiple trainings and continue my educational journey. In October of 2020, I completed the ADHD Coaching Children and Teens Certification Program at the University of NH as well as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider Program (ADHD- CCSP) through PESI in 2022. I have also taken additonal trainings in ACT through PESI, a nationally accredited training company in 2022. I continue to take trainings on ACT, ADHD, CBT, trauma and more, on a regular basis to continue to offer additional techniques to clients as they become available.
I was diagnosed with ADHD at age 11 and have always been very interested in learning about how neurodivergent brains work. This high level of interest is part of what led me to work in this area as a passion, while also understanding it on a personal level. I am not for everyone.
I am never offended when a client and I do not click. Therapists are service providers and it is important that you find the absolute right person to work with for your particular needs. If I believe that I am not the right fit for your needs, typically because I see ADHD is not the primary area of need at present, I will suggest alternative treatment. I want only the best for all people who reach out to me as is my ethical duty. I am also incredibly honest and ask a lot of clarifying questions to ensure I fully understand your situation and give the best possible skills suggestions. Please note that it is always ok to tell your providers something isn’t working for you or that you no longer wish to work with them. I will also never encourage therapeutic work I feel is damaging or not helpful. This is also part of the code of social work ethic.
SoCo, the German Shepherd began coming into the office about 3 years ago after a client requested a visit from him due to grieiving the loss of their own dog. Since COVID poor SoCo has been through a lot and suffers from separation anxiety. Due to doing so well coming into the office and so many clients enjoying his presence after the initial visit, he has been coming daily. This is typically enjoyable for most, however I know not everyone likes dogs. You are also not required to touch him at all and this is a good exercise in boundary setting.
All the Best- Liz
