Physical Disability

As someone with lived experience with a physical disability, I can support you on your journey from acceptance to adaptation. We will explore the beliefs about yourself that might be holding you back and help you reclaim your identity and the life you want to live.

Unfortunately, ableism is alive and well in our society and is rarely talked about, let alone addressed. My approach is firmly grounded in the belief that disability is a part of human diversity and does not need to be fixed. The harm caused by ableism runs deep and is pervasive. My personal experiences guide my work with clients who have disabilities and I use holistic techniques to help folks care for themselves, and provide a space that is validating, empowering, and empathetic.

As a social worker who has worked in each phase of the health care system as well as being a person who has their own physical disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to those who have disabilities, including celebrating and affirming our differences and discussing how we can bring more of that energy to the world at large.

As the primary carer for an adult child with multiple disabling chronic illnesses, I understand the secret struggles that those with physical disabilities can face. Everything from having enough spoons to face the next challenge to the internalize ableism that can sometimes torture you. I provide telehealth services so you can access therapy from anywhere you feel comfortable in a safe and accepting space.

I have personal experience with the visually impaired/blind community and professional experience as a paraprofessional working with those who dealt with physical disabilities in addition to mental health concerns as well as the unique challenges caregiving presents to the family system. Additionally, I facilitate a weekly support group for cancer patients.

The overall goal is to promote the individual’s ability to perform daily activities in a way that enhances their quality of life, and makes it possible to enjoy independent living. Occupational therapy enables the participant to foster independence, productivity and self-care, both at home, at work, in school, and out in public.

I have a spinal cord injury and there are so many curve balls a disability throws ones way. It can be nice to have someone that has "been there, done that" but also knows each persons experience is their own. I want to help you process those feelings and thoughts you may not feel you are able to do with friends and family.

Disability can vastly change the way we interact with our world and how the world interacts with us. I understand this at a personal level. As a person with a disability, I understand that the world we live in wasn't built for my needs and yet I will make it work. In therapy we can explore disability, disability identity, and coping with the able-world around us. More importantly, we can explore what you want to do with your life and how to do it - barriers and all.

- depression -anxiety -chronic illness -prolonged stress -abuse and mistreatment - coping skills - medical trauma

As someone with a physical disability themselves, I am able to relate to life with a disability in many ways, and can empathize deeply with those dealing with this.

While Zach prefers "uniquely abled", over his nearly two decades within physical therapy and now as a pre-licensed counselor in training, he also possesses an uncommon combination of knowledge and skills to promote a whole-health perspective, grounded in a person-first intention coupled with an accepting and compassionate presence.