Works with ages 18+

Hi! I’m Tara (rhymes with Sara, she/her pronouns). I’m an outpatient psychotherapist at the Three Oaks South Durham office. I’m glad you’re considering therapy! Here’s a bit about me as you discern who might be the best fit for you:

After studying psychology and Spanish at Elon University (plus a couple of gap years), I pursued my Master’s in Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I then went to Duke Divinity School where I completed the Fellowship in Theology, Medicine, and Culture and graduated with my Master’s in Theological Studies.

Between graduate school and my clinical work, I addressed intimate partner violence and sexual assault, gaining experience in crisis intervention, hospital accompaniment, client advocacy, and trauma-informed program development. Now, in addition to my role at Three Oaks, I address abortion stigma and mental health as a Peer Counselor and Director of External Training at Exhale Pro-Voice.

As a therapist, I work with adults who’ve experienced religious trauma and shame related to reproduction, sex and sexuality (e.g., purity culture), and gender. I also address stress and vicarious trauma for those working in healthcare and helping professions. Lastly, I support folks working through anxiety, interpersonal challenges, grief, and academic stressors.

When invited and appropriate, my work involves a Christian-specific lens, always in service to my anti-racist, queer- and trans-affirming, abortion-supportive, and other anti-oppressive commitments. I am happy to explore this lens if you are interested.

My work is person-centered, trauma-informed, and focused on co-creating a strong therapeutic relationship. I pull from psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) modalities to bring together insight-driven and skills-based approaches.

When not working, you can find me reading, doing jigsaw puzzles and hot yoga, exploring my love of film, and spending quality time with my spouse, two rescue pit bulls, and other loved ones. If you think we’d be a good fit or have questions about my approach, please reach out. I’d be happy to connect!

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