Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, ups and downs, and moments of both joy and challenge. I am dedicated to helping individuals find their way through the complexities of life, armed with the tools to heal, grow, and thrive. My approach is deeply rooted in compassion, understanding, and a commitment to facilitating positive change.
In my work, I embrace a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach that recognizes the impact of past experiences on an individual’s present and future. It’s a philosophy that acknowledges the significance of personal strengths and resilience, fostering an environment where growth is not only possible but inevitable.
Just as life is multifaceted, so too is my therapeutic framework. I draw from a combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing. These rich traditions provide a strong foundation to guide my interventions and empower those I work with to overcome obstacles, face their fears, and embrace change.
People seek therapy for diverse reasons, each with their own unique motivations and readiness for change. My role often involves guiding individuals to recognize their core values, confront areas of avoidance, and break free from patterns that keep them stuck. I find immense joy in celebrating the small victories along this journey, helping clients discover their own inner champions and boosting their self-assurance.
Central to my belief system is the conviction that recovery is attainable for everyone. It’s important to understand that recovery doesn’t equate to a life devoid of challenges or pain, but rather the ability to navigate these hardships with greater effectiveness. I view recovery as a non-linear, messy process, requiring perseverance and courage. While there are no guarantees, the potential for a richer, more fulfilling life makes every step of the journey worthwhile.
My academic journey began at Pacific University in Hillsboro, Oregon, where I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. My studies encompassed a wide range of subjects including human development, assessment and diagnosis, evidence-based therapeutic techniques for both individual and group counseling, professional ethics, addiction treatment, and cultural sensitivity.
Beyond my formal education, I’ve actively sought additional training to enhance my skill set. I am a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, level 1 (CADC I), and I’ve completed specialized training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. This continuous learning journey enables me to stay current with the latest approaches and provide the highest level of care to my clients.
As a licensed professional counselor under the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, I am dedicated to upholding the highest ethical standards. My commitment to ongoing education ensures that I remain well-versed in emerging practices, trends, and insights in the field, ultimately benefiting those who entrust me with their journeys.
In conclusion, my life’s purpose revolves around helping individuals transform challenges into opportunities and pain into growth. Through my trauma-informed, strengths-based approach and the integration of therapeutic traditions, I strive to empower others to uncover their inner strengths, embrace the possibility of recovery, and chart a course towards a more meaningful and satisfying life. The journey may be unpredictable, but it’s one worth taking—a journey of healing, discovery, and empowerment.
503-659-3480 ext. TBA