Counseling Services

I have a master’s degree in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy from George Fox University. I specialize in the needs of children, adolescents, and families and am one of few therapists specializing in attachment and interpersonal trauma needs of young children in the Gorge via Theraplay informed practices and expressive therapies (play therapy, sand tray, and art therapy). I work with children and families in a collaborative, respectful, and creative way, with the overall passion to help my clients thrive.

For the past ten years, I have worked at The Next Door with youth who have extensive trauma backgrounds. I believe that every person has the right to live in a way that allows them to be safe and healthy in both mind and body. I have a master’s degree in social work from the University of Boise State. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe and trusting environment in which the client’s views are respected and accepted as valuable and significant. I view people in a holistic manner, taking into account their physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. Past experiences influence how you feel about yourself, view the world and interact with others. As we explore these dimensions, my hope is for you to discover your uniqueness as an individual.

I have supported children and families for nearly three decades and understand the fundamental need for the therapeutic relationship to promote a safe and nurturing space for the process of healing. My goal as a therapist is to provide a person-centered approach, guided by the principles of unconditional positive regard, empathy, self-reflection, and support.

I have experience working with a broad range of parenting relationships, young children, children in foster care, and children in classroom settings. I specialize in child development, child temperaments, social and emotional learning, emotional regulation skills, therapeutic play practices, attachment issues, healing from trauma, mindfulness-based therapy, and mind-body integration therapy.

I attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work form Portland State University. In addition, I received an Infant and Toddler Mental Health graduate certificate, and a Human Services Management graduate certificate from PSU.

I see my role as a therapist is to ensure that I work alongside you to create a life of fulfillment to help you achieve your goals. I see our work as a team effort to help support you in the decisions that will have the most impact on your life.

My approach is rooted in using your values, strengths, and goals for effective treatment. Every client is different and deserves their differences to be honored. For that reason, I pull from a variety of therapeutic modalities including Client Centered Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

In addition, I hold a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Bachelor’s in Family and Consumer Sciences. I’ve worked in a variety of roles supporting families including families involved with child protective services, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with high behavior needs.

I have an Associate of Applied Science Degree, along with being a Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA). My work experience has allowed me to work with clients from different backgrounds. This has helped me cultivate great communication skills and the ability to connect with people. I also have experience with training, along with caring for children and teens. My role as a skills trainer is to work along side you and your family to help fulfill and achieve your goals. I see myself as part of your personal team, here to support you in making decisions that will best suit your life.