“I have over 15 years of counseling experience working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction, family conflict, relationship problems, legal problems, vocational problems, and spiritual crises of faith.”
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
In 2000, I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in English with minors in German and European studies from Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. I spent the year after college working as an English teacher in Germany while on a Fulbright grant. In 2006, I obtained a Master of Divinity at Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey and, in 2009, a Master of Arts in counseling for mental health and wellness from NYU. I have worked in both substance use outpatient and inpatient programs as well as in medical and psychiatric hospital settings. I have over 15 years of counseling experience working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction, family conflict, relationship problems, legal problems, vocational problems, and spiritual crises of faith.
What should someone know about working with you?
Your initial appointment will focus on identifying your primary concerns and issues (what's bringing you into therapy). We will then focus on the relevant history of the problem. Over subsequent sessions, I like to explore family history, medical history, education, and work history (if these areas are not discussed during the initial visit). I only assign homework if you want it and find it valuable to your process.
What do you do to continue learning and building competencies as a provider?
I engage in continuing education courses regularly to help me deepen my knowledge and expand my skills. In addition to professional learning, I participate in clinical supervision with colleagues and in an accountability group of peers. I also take part in personal therapy and coaching to support my own wellbeing.
How do your own core values shape your approach to therapy?
I value kindness, compassion, and authenticity and seek to provide a nonjudgmental and supportive presence with all of my clients.
What are you most excited about within the evolving mental health landscape?
I am most interested in what neuroscience is beginning to teach us about neuroplasticity and our ability to heal and change throughout the lifespan.
“I value kindness, compassion, and authenticity and seek to provide a nonjudgmental and supportive presence with all of my clients.”