Mikaella is a doctoral intern specializing in psychotherapy and psychological evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working in private practices throughout Northern Virginia, families at Alexandria, VA’s community service board with under-served youth, and adolescents in juvenile detention settings. Mikaella is passionate in working with individuals and families with culturally diverse backgrounds and working with those exploring the intersectionality of their identity. She has experience working with those with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral difficulties, trauma concerns, and interpersonal concerns. She has received training in trauma focused CBT for trauma in children and adolescents.

Additionally, she enjoys utilizing child-centered play therapy for younger children that she works with. Overall, Mikaella utilizes an integrative approach using techniques from psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and family systems therapy to tailor treatment to goals are collaboratively set with the individual, couple, or family. In working with couples and families, Mikaella draws techniques from Emotion Focused and Gottman therapy to assist in identifying challenges and where everyone can grow. Regarding assessments, Mikaella conducts psychological testing to assist individuals in understanding their unique challenges and to tailor effective treatment strategies for next steps.

Mikaella received her Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience with a minor in Psychology at George Mason University and her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, D.C. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Washington D.C. Campus. Outside of the office, you can find Mikaella walking her dog, baking, or playing video and board games.