Have you ever felt frustrated, empty and lost after finding yourself stuck in life patterns that seem to repeat again and again? You have gifts to offer the world. Let’s work together to discover them.
About Me:
I first became interested in psychology in my earlier career as an art teacher. I noticed how individuals of all ages experienced increased psychological well-being and focus when expressing themselves artistically.
In addition, at this time, I was also struggling with some major losses in my life. After trying to “figure things out” on my own without much success, I began to see a therapist to help me navigate these life transitions. As my work progressed in my own therapy and I experienced first-hand how powerful therapeutic interventions can be, I became increasingly interested in and excited by the field of psychotherapy.
I returned to school and earned my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University in 2013. I have been working with children and families at Peninsula Behavioral Health since that time, earning my license as a mental health counselor in 2015. I began my private practice, working with adults, youth, children and families in 2019.
Qualifications: I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), Washington State credential number: LH60532302. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and as a Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor. I have worked in a variety of capacities, including fulltime therapist, child mental health specialist, clinical supervisor for other therapists, and facilitating parenting classes at Peninsula College.
Psychological Services: My orientation to the practice of psychotherapy is integrative and flexible. I use a wide variety of techniques to help clients reach their goals. I believe that each person is the best resource for insight and change, with my role as a guide to assist clients in discovering their own answers in a safe environment.
I employ a variety of therapies, depending on the individual’s needs and interests, including Individual Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy, Expressive Therapies (play, art, and sand tray), and Attachment-Focused Family Therapy.
In summary, my focus is to help the individuals I work with identify, challenge and replace self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that are causing emotional pain and to assist developing new skills in problem-solving and in relating to others. The final choice as to how far you want to go in your therapy is yours to make.
Finding the right person for your therapy is essential. You have the right to refuse treatment and the right to choose a practitioner and treatment modality which best suits your needs. I will not be offended if after our initial visit you choose to be referred to another therapist. Instead I will help you identify what you need and attempt to match your needs with another therapist.