Hi, I’m Mary!
I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and currently working toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor–Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in Tennessee.
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and adults as they navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, disability-related stress, and other personal challenges. I provide a compassionate, affirming space where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach is neurodiversity affirming and grounded in respect for each client’s unique strengths, experiences, and goals.
As a Memphis native, I am deeply connected to the community I serve and committed to helping individuals and families thrive. I believe every person has unique strengths, and I work collaboratively with clients to build on those strengths while developing tools for growth and resilience.
My educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Mary Baldwin College, a Master’s degree in Autism Studies, a Graduate Certificate in Disability Studies, and a Master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, all from the University of Memphis. This diverse training allows me to bring both a broad perspective and specialized expertise to my work with clients across the lifespan.
I have extensive experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds and a wide range of mental health needs. In community mental health I have provided counseling to children, adolescents, and adults facing emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. I have also worked with veterans through the VA, supporting them in addressing mental health concerns, managing physical health challenges, and overcoming employment barriers during their transition to civilian life.
One impactful experience in my career was serving as Senior Instructor for the TigerLIFE Program at the University of Memphis Institute on Disability. In this role, I supported young adults as they developed independence, built life skills, and achieved vocational readiness. Watching their growth and success strengthened my commitment to helping clients reach their potential and achieve their goals.
Before becoming a counselor, I spent more than 15 years in education. That experience gave me a strong understanding of child and adolescent development, learning differences, and the importance of meeting clients where they are. As a licensed K–8 educator in Tennessee, I bring a unique perspective that helps me connect with children, adolescents, adults, and families in meaningful ways.
My counseling approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop healthy coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and work toward their personal goals. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, chronic illness, and disability-related stress. My approach is neurodiversity affirming and grounded in respect for each client’s unique strengths, experiences, and goals.
I believe healing happens through connection, understanding, and growth. It is an honor to walk alongside clients as they navigate challenges, build resilience, and create the lives they want for themselves.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being a proud dog mom, singing, swimming, traveling, and exploring the outdoors. My husband, a talented musician, and I also enjoy having “band practice” together in our home studio.
If you are ready to take the next step toward healing and personal growth, I would be honored to support you on your journey.
About the Author
Mary is a graduate of the Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Program at the University of Memphis and is a Nationally Certified Counselor with GBS, practicing under the supervision of Emily Vanderpool, LBA, LPC-MHSP.
