I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with adults, adolescents, children, and couples in a variety of settings for over 15 years. My approach is strengths-based and is centered on each client’s needs, and is holistic considering the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I collaborate with my clients to establish a therapeutic relationship that is grounded in openness, honesty, trust, empathy, acceptance, and, occasionally, even humor! My clients and I create a partnership where we identify goals for therapy and work towards them together. Psychotherapy often includes the client sharing memories from the past, while also focusing on the present moment to grow from these experiences. I believe that all individuals have the capacity to reach their full potential, and psychotherapy can promote lasting and meaningful change.

I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, especially those working through relationship challenges, including grief and loss; recovering from addiction and/or trauma; and those wanting to ease anxiety and depression. I integrate empirically validated methods, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. Over the past 7 years, I have been compelled by the study of neuroscience and how psychotherapy can help clients to regulate emotions and change their brains so that they feel more secure within themselves and with others. I have also studied, taught, and practiced mindfulness meditation, to some degree, for 15 years, and I incorporate meditation in sessions when it is client-driven.

Psychotherapy begins with an initial, 60-minute psychological and/or substance abuse evaluation that involves the client sharing about the past, as well as the present concerns. If we decide to work together, we will meet weekly for 60-minute sessions. The plan for psychotherapy, including the number of sessions, is guided by the client’s needs.

• Bachelor’s of Science Degree, Applied Psychology, Eastern Washington University, 2001
• Master’s of Science Degree, Mental Health Counseling, Eastern Washington University, 2003
• Doctorate of Philosophy, Counselor Education and Supervision, Western Michigan University, 2009

• Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon (#2758) since 2011
• Nationally Certified Counselor since 2003
• Graduate certificate in Specialty Programs in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs since 2007
• License maintained  with a minimum of 20 continuing education hours per year.