I’m glad you are here.
Philosophy on Healing
I believe people are already whole and do not need “fixing” but rather are seeking a remembering of who they were before the pain, their truest most authentic self. We can have amazing aha moments, but I also feel healing can be a slow unravel. An unraveling of the pain that has kept us twisted for so long. An unraveling of the expectations, ideas and confines that have kept us so tightly wound to an old way of living that no longer serves us. Through this unraveling we can get to the depth of who you are as a person and help you become more of who you want to be. I believe people can not only heal from their wounds, but gain a deeper sense of self in the process, strengthen their relationships, identify their values, create the soul-aligned life they crave. Ultimately I believe people have an innate wisdom that should be uncovered and honored.
I believe healing happens when we honor our whole selves, mind/body/spirit, and create space for wellness including therapy, creative expression, movement, stillness and any other means that honor one’s essence. This has led me to study healing and self-expression in various forms.
My Therapeutic Approach
My approach is attachment based, person-centered and trauma informed. This means I trust you are the expert on your life and I am there to support you in the changes and healing you wish to make. This happens through validation, uncovering root causes of pain and creating new patterns of behavior for emotional wellness. I utilize emotionally focused therapy, parts work, body awareness and expressive arts when desired. What this looks like in our work together is that I am curious about you, gentle and help to provide clarity for what you seek. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and together we will use your feelings as a guide for where to dig deeper. I consider myself a companion on your healing journey and appreciate how sacred this work is.
Professional Experience
Professionally I have worked with a variety of populations and in a variety of settings including, the foster care system, the justice system, schools, substance abuse treatment centers and community mental health. This has allowed me to work with a diverse population including individuals, couples and families both youth and adult.
Prior to my work as a therapist I worked for many years in the nonprofit and educational settings in support and leadership roles.
My formal education includes a degree in Psychology with a minor in Addictions Counseling. I continued my education with a Master’s Degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Alliant International University where I deepened my experience and training in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Education & Credentials
Alliant International University – M.A. Marital and Family Therapy
University of Nevada, Reno B.A. Psychology & Minor in Addictions Counseling
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist CA #123618
Continued learnings and tending to the soul…
Following my passions for experiential healing and accessing one’s innate wisdom, I have continued my studies in Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, expressive arts, motherhood studies and a Women Who Run with the Wolves residential training with Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés, renowned author, poet, activist, post trauma specialist and jungian analyst. I believe some of the most profound healing comes through creativity, expression and tending to our soul.
Some other tidbits…
I am a mother, artist, animal lover and seeker of the mystical parts of life. I love art, music, poetry, coffee, chips and queso, reading and connecting with nature. I am a forever student and always love to learn.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”
— Anaïs Nin