Pursuing counseling requires courage, and I commend you for taking this step for yourself and/or on behalf of your child. I believe that most changes and growth occur within the context of relationship, therefore my first goal is to build trust through empathy, consistency, listening to understand, and mutual respect. I work primarily with children and families, and am passionate about strengthening the family unit through enhancing communication and the quality of relationships. Caregivers know their children best, and I seek to partner with them in addressing the needs of their child. As adults, we often struggle with the behavioral and relational patterns that were developed when we were young as well as what we came to believe about ourselves which is often cemented in trauma/stressors. I approach therapy with adults with this in mind, supporting a deeper understanding of one’s background and moving towards greater health and happiness as transformed narratives and patterns are developed.
I use a variety of clinical modalities in sessions from a strength-based, trauma-informed, and client-centered lens to fit the needs of individual and families. The modalities I use the most are Trauma-Focused CBT, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, EMDR, as well as elements of Play Therapy. Play is the language of children and it is through play that children most often process the stressful events in their lives and build new skills.
My educational background includes a Master’s in Social Work from Portland State University. I subsequently attained licensure from the Oregon Board of Social Work. I graduated from George Fox University where I received dual degrees in both psychology and social work. I have been trained as a clinical supervisor through Lewis & Clark College. I have several years of experience supervising QMHAs, QMHPs, and Master’s Level interns and am passionate about being a resource to fellow clinicians to support our mutual growth and the quality of client care.
