Biography
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward. I typically utilize a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (examining your thoughts and beliefs) in conjunction with Emotion-Focused Therapy (identifying/labeling emotions and learning to cope/respond to them in a more adaptive manner) to help you examine not only what you are thinking and feeling, but where they come from and the needs underlying your experience.
I believe our past informs our present, and we only benefit from processing how we have been impacted by those prior experiences, whether they are life giving or detrimental. When we better understand our own needs and experiences, we can then make informed and intentional choices about how we respond to life authentically. Counseling is a unique opportunity to pursue wellness not just in isolation, but instead through the power of a healthy relationship and safe space. I deeply enjoy and appreciate the counseling space and count it a privilege to be invited into your world as we walk together!
I have experience working with:
Anxiety (Generalized; Sport-related)
Women’s Issues
Self-Efficacy/Self-Esteem
Stage of Life Concerns
Life Transitions
Family of Origin
Grief
Addiction
Depression
Trauma
Marital/Premarital
About me:
I was born and raised in Portland Oregon, and greatly enjoy living so close to the mountain, the gorge and the beach! I graduated with a master’s degree in counseling from Western Seminary and hold a psychology degree from Multnomah University. I formerly worked as a substitute teacher in the Portland and Gresham school districts in addition to coaching volleyball. I played competitive volleyball throughout high school and college and continue to enjoy the sport recreationally. I adore animals and love to hear about your furry friends. I also greatly enjoy creative expression, especially painting with either acrylics or watercolor!
I believe our past informs our present, and we only benefit from processing how we have been impacted by those prior experiences, whether they are life giving or detrimental. When we better understand our own needs and experiences, we can then make informed and intentional choices about how we respond to life authentically. Counseling is a unique opportunity to pursue wellness not just in isolation, but instead through the power of a healthy relationship and safe space. I deeply enjoy and appreciate the counseling space and count it a privilege to be invited into your world as we walk together!
I have experience working with:
Anxiety (Generalized; Sport-related)
Women’s Issues
Self-Efficacy/Self-Esteem
Stage of Life Concerns
Life Transitions
Family of Origin
Grief
Addiction
Depression
Trauma
Marital/Premarital
About me:
I was born and raised in Portland Oregon, and greatly enjoy living so close to the mountain, the gorge and the beach! I graduated with a master’s degree in counseling from Western Seminary and hold a psychology degree from Multnomah University. I formerly worked as a substitute teacher in the Portland and Gresham school districts in addition to coaching volleyball. I played competitive volleyball throughout high school and college and continue to enjoy the sport recreationally. I adore animals and love to hear about your furry friends. I also greatly enjoy creative expression, especially painting with either acrylics or watercolor!
