It's important to me that you have an idea of who I am as a human being first... then as a therapist. I am one year shy of 40. I have been with my husband since I was 20... and no, it wasn't always easy and yes, we did go to counseling, many times! I have a 17 year old daughter, who is by far one of my favorite people. I also have a 7 year old son whom is a gift as he keeps me active and young at heart. I also have many furry four legged children including four horses, three dogs, bunnies, and chickens. I love the arts and find nature to be the most beautiful canvas of all. I am strong willed and can be stubborn. I am also caring, giving and passionate about life. I am a life long learner and I am always discovering how I can be a better human being.
So, now you probably want to know what makes me qualified to help you. So, here it goes... I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the state of Oregon. and California. I've been in private practice for nearly 10 years and have been in the field for 15 years. I am also an educator as I've taught at the University for 10 years. I have been trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, EFT, Trauma-Focused CBT, CPT, Attachment-Focused Dyadic Developmental, Brain Spotting, Art Therapy, Play Therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I have worked with most ages and specialty areas throughout my career and I feel each person was a gift. In discovering my truth, I've also learned who I am meant to work with. I am specially gifted in working with those who have experienced loss, trauma, relationship distress, co-dependency, difficulty with self-esteem and low self-worth, intimacy challenges, feeling lost or unsure of where they belong within relationships and in life. I enjoy helping others to grow and learn who they can become.
My theoretical orientation is humanistic and psychodynamic... what that means is I believe who we are now is rooted in who we have been, and who we can become is rooted in our truth. I believe we can create a life full of joy. I believe we have to discover our selves, make sense and heal from our past, and learn how to move forward into the light. I believe we can do this within a genuine, caring and connected therapeutic relationship.
