I am proud of the officer I was.

There was a time when I had to fight for my reputation while still putting on a uniform and showing up to serve.

During my time at the Pflugerville Police Department, I experienced gender-based harassment, demeaning comments, and repeated attempts to undermine my credibility. After being selected for a K-9 position, I heard that I had only gotten it because I was a woman. I earned that opportunity, but never got to step into the role.

My work was scrutinized, complaints were filed against me, and my character was questioned. An independent investigation documented gender bias, discrimination, and a hostile work environment. Living through it took a toll that no report can fully capture. It is exhausting to keep proving yourself while also trying to protect your peace.

But my career did not end in Pflugerville.

I went on to another department and continued being a rockstar. I kept serving, kept working hard, and kept showing what I brought to the profession. What happened to me did not erase my abilities, my integrity, or the heart I put into my work.

When I completed my clinical licensure, I knew it was time to help others heal full time.

Today, I am in full-time private practice, working for myself from home. I have the extraordinary honor of walking alongside my clients through their deepest traumas—being trusted with the stories they have struggled to tell, witnessing their courage, and helping them find their way forward.

I am proud of the officer I was. I am proud that I kept going. And I have never felt more honored to do the work I am doing now.

There is so much life beyond a place that hurt you. I’m grateful I kept going long enough to build mine. 🤍