I went into social work because I’m passionate about helping the people I work with change their lives by realizing their own strengths! As a therapist, I believe that although each one of us faces unique challenges, everyone can benefit from self-work in therapeutic settings.

I hold a Masters degree in Social Work from Portland State University. Prior to opening a private practice, I completed internships with Kaiser Permanenteand Washington County, and spent four years working as a child and family therapist in community mental health. I am licensed by the State of Oregon as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a designation given to social workers in clinical practice who have had over 3500 of work, have spent 2000 hours providing clinical services, and have demonstrated knowledge of clinical practices on a certifying exam.

If this is your first experience with counseling, I want you to know that you are in the driver’s seat. We will discuss each step we take together towards your goals. I think about our work together as an opportunity for you to think about concerns that you would like to resolve and receive support in learning new ways to address those concerns. I see people as resilient, and I’m passionate about helping the people I work with change their lives by realizing their own strengths.

My theoretical orientation is based on interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focusedtherapy, collaborative problem solving and motivational interviewing. Depending on your needs, we may use some or all of these strategies to achieve your goals.

I enjoy working with every client and have extensive experience with families, children, and adults, and I place emphasis on my ability to build relationships with pre-teens, teenagers, and young adults who are making difficult life transitions, grappling with new responsibilities, or relationships. I also specialize in treatment of anxiety.

I’m from Colorado originally, and have lived in Oregon since 2004. I love it here and I’m thrilled that my daughter can proudly say that she is an Oregon native! A few of my favorite things: coffee, travel, reading, beagles (ask me about my dog, Pancake!), and humor.