She/Her
When asked to write my bio, the first thing I asked myself was: “What qualities would I seek in a therapist?” Here are some of the words that came to mind: trustworthy, honest, caring, non-judgmental, empathetic, good listener, and advocate. These are all qualities that I practice when working with my clients. I understand that it can be difficult to open up when you first start therapy and it’s important to find a “good fit.” That’s why my approach to therapy focuses on building trust and providing a safe space for you to share your story.
Therapy can be challenging work, but it can also be extremely rewarding. As your therapist, I will support and encourage you throughout the process, as well as, challenge you when appropriate. During our sessions, we will work collaboratively on identifying your therapy goals, building upon your strengths, and learning new coping skills. Together, we will work to overcome negative thoughts and behaviors and get you on the path to feeling better about your life!
Licensed in Oregon.
Teletherapy and in-person.
(503) 404-3010 in the Tigard office
(503) 286-7909 (fax)
Work Experience
I have worked in the behavioral health field for approximately 20 years. I have extensive experience working with adults, families, and couples. I have also worked in various settings, such as inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and both private and group practice. I began my career working as an addictions counselor in New York and have been working as a mental health counselor since moving to Oregon several years ago.
Education
I graduated from Villanova University (PA) with a BA in Psychology in 1997. I then graduated from St. Bonaventure University (NY) with a MSEd in Community Counseling in 2000. Finally, I returned to graduate school to complete additional coursework for my licensure and obtained an Advanced Certificate in Mental Health Counseling in 2010.
Licenses & Certifications
I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor II (CADC) in the state of Oregon. I am licensed through the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, and I am registered with the Mental Health and Addiction Certification Board of Oregon. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the National Board of Certified Counselors.
Self-Care Activities
I enjoy yoga and pilates, meditation, walking in nature, listening to music, dancing in my living room, spending time with my two furballs (Velcro & Foodie), and of course, there’s my new hobby (thanks to Covid)…binge watching shows on Netflix!
Issues Treated
The following is a list of issues that I treat: Depression/Bipolar; Anxiety; PTSD/Trauma; OCD; ADHD; Addiction/Recovery; Children of Alcoholics/Addicts; Life Transitions/Adjustment Issues; Stress Related to Career/Education; Relationship Issues; Family Conflict; Grief/Loss; LGBTQ; Anger Management; and Low Self-Esteem. Please note, while I have treated many clients over the years with both mood disorders and anxiety disorders, as well as substance use disorders, my true passion is working with women who have experienced trauma, such as domestic violence and sexual assault.
Treatment Techniques & Approaches
I do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach to therapy. Therefore, my therapy practices are often very ecelctic. I try to tailor these practices to the individual client and utilize evidence-based practices specific to the issue being addressed. The following is a list of treatment techniques and approaches that I use in my practice: Person-Centered; Trauma-Informed; Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused; Mindfulness Meditation and Stress Reduction; Motivational Enhancement and Harm-Reduction; Family Systems; Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP); and Basic Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).