The therapeutic journey can feel uncomfortable or difficult at times; mental and emotional symptoms may feel like they're worsening before they improve; and each session will not always lead to obvious life-changing moments. Nonetheless, I am hopeful and optimistic that if we choose to spend time together our journey forward has the potential to facilitate personal growth by simply choosing to be on it. In my experience, the best chance for success is a strong therapeutic relationship enhanced by your understanding that participation in therapy is voluntary; being genuine in relationships between you and others, and a willingness to look at the relationship between you and you are also of the utmost importance. For some, this work on self can be daunting; to me, it doesn't have to be and that may depend on your network of support. Thus, I gladly make myself available to others in this capacity because the process of building relationships and looking at self sometimes just needs to start somewhere. Engaging with others in various ways is a strong passion of mine; and when I'm not doing clinical work I'm typically doing or planning something fun and satisfying with family and/or friends. Occasionally, some solitude or nature can be rejuvenating for me too.
My approach to counseling and therapy is generally person-centered. Throughout adulthood I've understood the connection between an individual's thoughts, behaviors, and feelings; and therefore, easily grasped the benefits of seeing an individual's needs, strengths, and abilities holistically. I naturally relate to and implement techniques based in cognitive and behavioral theories. I often utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy strategies and take an eclectic approach as much as possible. I've done most of my work in residential care settings; including government, non-profit, and for-profit entities. In the past I've worked with families, couples, and a variety of presenting issues; but most of my work has been with individuals or groups struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and/or traumatic pasts. During these latter stages of my career, I've come to believe strongly in family systems and how necessary it isas a helping professional to be considerate of those dynamics for individuals.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of OR since April 2011. Throughout this timeframe I've also supervised other Master's level clinicians in various capacities clinically and administratively. I hold a Master's degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Mental Health Counseling from Southern Oregon University, and have worked with adolescent and adult populations since 2007.
