Is my ability to create a comfortable and open environment for others. I believe in maintaining a genuine, down-to-earth approach in my practice, recognizing that I am human and embracing both my strengths and imperfections. I find that this authenticity allows clients to feel more at ease and encourages them to express themselves openly, even in challenging moments.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” -Leo Buscaglia
“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” -Dalai Lama
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou
I am a person who values kindness and authenticity in every interaction. I approach life with a relaxed and open attitude, always striving to create a genuine connection with others. My nature is warm and approachable, making it easy for people to feel comfortable and understood in my presence.
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Client Centered. I focus on creating a safe and supportive environment where you’ll feel heard and understood. I use a blend of evidence-based techniques tailored to each person’s unique needs, drawing from approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Care, and Strengths based methods. My goal is to empower you by helping build resilience, gain clarity, and develop tools you need to navigate your life’s challenges with confidence.
You can expect a safe and supportive space where you’ll be met with respect, understanding and compassion. I’ll be there to listen to your experiences, help you navigate challenges, and work with you to find practical solutions that feel right for you. Together, we’ll focus on your strengths and progress, with the goal of helping you feel more empowered, at peace and ready to embrace positive change in your life.
I help clients create change by providing a supportive and collaborative environment where we explore their challenges and strengths. Through open dialogue and personalized strategies, I guide clients in developing practical tools for managing their emotions, overcoming obstacles, and shifting their mindset. By focusing on their unique needs and goals, we work together to foster growth, build resilience, and empower them to make lasting, meaningful changes in their lives.
My personal and professional background gives me unique insight into the challenges faced by individuals dealing with trauma, life transitions, and mental health struggles. As a seasoned professional with experience working in various settings, I understand the complexities of navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and grief. Additionally, my work with veterans, first responders, and individuals facing medical crises has deepened my ability to connect with and support those experiencing high levels of stress, loss, and emotional distress. This diverse experience allows me to approach each client’s situation with empathy and tailored strategies for healing and growth.
I am most passionate about serving individuals who have experienced trauma, including veterans, military personnel, and first responders. I also feel deeply committed to supporting those navigating mental health challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and grief. Additionally, I am passionate about working with families in medical crises, those in hospice or palliative care, and individuals experiencing end-of-life decisions. I also find great fulfillment in supporting neurodivergent individuals, helping them with emotional regulation and executive functioning to enhance their quality of life.
My approach to concerns like trauma, anxiety, and depression is grounded in creating a safe, empathetic space where clients can feel understood and supported. For trauma, I use trauma-informed care to ensure a sensitive and respectful process that acknowledges the impact of past experiences while focusing on healing and resilience. For anxiety and depression, I incorporate evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and strengths-based strategies to help clients identify unhelpful patterns, develop coping mechanisms, and rebuild a sense of empowerment. Throughout the process, my goal is to work collaboratively with clients, empowering them to take active steps toward healing and improved emotional well-being.
I’m passionate about helping individuals and families navigate challenges, inspired by the resilience of the human spirit and the power of compassionate support. My goal is to guide others toward healing and growth.
Creating a safe space starts with empathy, active listening, and meeting clients where they are. I build trust by respecting each client’s unique experiences and tailoring my approach to their needs.
What makes my practice unique is my focus on supporting neurodivergent individuals and caregivers, while also offering compassionate guidance through grief and end-of-life decisions. I create an inclusive, strengths-based environment where you feel respected, understood, and empowered to navigate your challenges with confidence.
Trauma and loss are deeply personal experiences, and I aim to provide a compassionate and steady presence for clients as they process their emotions. Together, we explore coping strategies, honor their experiences, and create a path toward healing at their own pace.
The therapeutic relationship I strive to create is one that is built on trust, safety, and compassion. I aim to foster an environment where clients feel comfortable being open and vulnerable, knowing that they are supported without judgment. I approach each person with an open mind, valuing their unique experiences and perspectives, and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. My focus is always on creating a space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their challenges and growth.
My experiences and interests have given me a unique understanding of humanity, purpose, resilience, and the pursuit of joy. Through working with diverse populations, including those facing trauma, loss, and significant life challenges, I have gained insight into the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for growth. I believe that everyone has the potential to find meaning and purpose, even in difficult times, and my work is centered on helping individuals tap into their resilience to cultivate a sense of fulfillment and joy in their lives.
People seek me out when dealing with the emotional impact of major life events, PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, and depression. I also work with families facing medical crisis, hospice or palliative care, end-of-life decisions, and caregiving challenges. Additionally I support individuals with neurodivergence in managing emotional regulation and executive functioning. I also assist veterans, military personnel and first responders coping with trauma, grief, and loss.
I believe that cultural differences make each person unique, and I follow the Golden Rule—treating others the way I would want to be treated. When challenges arise, I take the time to learn and grow, ensuring I check my biases and fully understand your perspective.
My background in the Air Force and my focus on empowering individuals allow me to connect with clients from diverse experiences, offering a space where they feel understood and respected. My work with neurodivergent individuals and families helps me create a supportive environment for healing and growth.
As a child, I always knew I wanted to be someone who truly listened to children and made them feel valued. After high school, I joined the Air Force as a police officer, but I quickly realized my passion was in helping people in a more empowering way. This led me to pursue a clinical social work degree, where I could make a meaningful impact in others’ lives.
My advocacy focus includes promoting mental health awareness, reducing the stigma surrounding therapy, and ensuring access to services for underserved populations. I am passionate about supporting marginalized communities, including veterans, individuals with neurodivergence, and those facing trauma or medical crises, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to thrive.
I create an inclusive space by actively listening to and respecting each client’s unique background, experiences, and identities. I strive to foster an environment where clients feel valued and understood, regardless of their race, culture, gender, or socioeconomic status. By maintaining cultural humility, I stay open to learning from my clients and adapting my approach to meet their specific needs, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and supported.
I navigate cultural differences by approaching each client with curiosity, respect, and a commitment to learning. I acknowledge and honor the diversity of experiences and perspectives that clients bring to the therapeutic process, being mindful of my own biases and limitations. I engage in ongoing self-reflection and cultural competence training to better understand how cultural factors may influence my clients’ experiences
Neurodivergent Individuals Supporting you in embracing your unique strengths, challenges, and thriving in daily life and relationships.
Veterans and Military Families Offering guidance and support as you navigate life after service, with a focus on healing and adapting to new challenges.
Children and Adolescents Helping kids and teens express their feelings, build confidence, and connect with their families.
Caregivers and Families Providing resources and support to help you manage stress, strengthen family bonds, and care for loved ones with compassion.
Grief and Loss Walking with you through the pain of loss, offering comfort, understanding, and support as you navigate the grieving process.
End-of-Life Decisions Helping you make thoughtful, meaningful decisions with your loved ones, ensuring your values and wishes are honored.
LGBTQIA+ Individuals Creating a safe space for you to explore your identity, offering support and affirmation as you embrace who you are.
Trauma and Resilience Supporting you in healing from past trauma and building strength to move forward with resilience and hope.
Couples and Families Working together to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen your relationships, making you feel more connected and understood.
Identity and Self-Discovery Guiding you as you explore your sense of self, helping you embrace who you are and navigate life transitions.
What brings me joy and keeps me grounded is giving back and spending time with those I love. I volunteer with Make-A-Wish Oregon, and my family is currently fostering three playful puppies. Whether we’re exploring a new farmers market or finding a hidden waterfall, I’m happiest with my family, Wish kids, or pups by my side.
What might surprise people about me is that, while it’s no secret I love learning, I’m currently working on learning two languages—Spanish and Italian! It’s something I’m doing purely for fun and personal growth, and I’m genuinely excited about the journey. It’s a new challenge that brings me joy and allows me to explore different cultures in a deeper way.
Some of my favorite things include flowers—daffodils and tulips are my top picks, but I love all flowers. I’m also a big fan of gummy candy and chocolate. In my free time, I enjoy drawing, crafting, and creating. Music is a huge part of my life, and I have an eclectic taste that spans from Buddy Holly to Lizzo. Blues music is my absolute favorite, but anything with a good tempo can get me dancing. I also love singing along, even if it’s terribly loud and off-key! It’s all about having fun and embracing the joy.
I began my career in the Air Force, where I earned a degree in Criminal Justice and discovered my drive to support others. After completing my BSW and MSW at USC, I specialized in clinical social work with a focus on trauma-informed care. My work has centered on hospice, palliative care, and grief—providing compassionate, supportive care during life’s most difficult transitions.
I have experience working with individuals of all ages who’ve experienced trauma from various sources, like domestic violence, medical crises, and hospice care. My approach is to meet you where you are, giving you the space to share your story when you’re ready. I’m here to help you understand your trauma, manage how it affects you, and find ways to move forward with healing and empowerment.
Should be inclusive, flexible, and easy to access. Everyone deserves support that fits their life—whether through telehealth, community care, or approaches that honor your whole self: mind, body, and relationships. Therapy should meet you where you are.
I care deeply about making therapy easier to access for everyone. I work with local groups, offer flexible payment options when I can, and do my part to make sure no one feels ashamed for seeking support. Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported.
I’m focused on growing in areas like trauma care, grief support, and working with diverse communities. I want to make mental health care more accessible for everyone, especially neurodivergent individuals and veterans, while helping people heal and build resilience. I also dream of writing a children’s book on healing after loss to offer support to younger generations.
You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and valued. Together, we’ll explore your challenges, recognize your strengths, and create a personalized plan for growth. You’ll be encouraged to take an active role in your journey, with my guidance, as we work to build resilience and well-being.
In a typical session, we start by checking in on how you’re feeling and what you’d like to focus on. We then dive into the topics or challenges you want to address, using techniques that work best for you. I’ll guide you through goal-setting, skill-building, and emotional processing, and we’ll wrap up by discussing takeaways and actions for the week ahead.
I work with you to create a flexible, client-centered treatment plan based on your unique concerns and goals. Together, we set realistic, achievable goals that reflect what matters most to you. I’ll check in regularly to make sure we’re on track and adjust as needed, always supporting you as you take ownership of your progress.
Absolutely not. This is your space, and you get to set the pace. I’m here to support you, not to judge or push—you’re always in control of what you choose to share and when.
YES! Groups are here to help you feel supported, connected, and empowered on your journey. There are a few group options to support you:
Stress & Mindfulness Group Relax, reduce stress, and learn simple ways to stay calm every day.
Parenting Support Group Connect with other parents and get tips on supporting your kids through challenges.
Grief Support Group Share your feelings and find comfort with others who understand your loss.
Crisis Support & Focus Group Get help during tough times and learn ways to stay organized and focused.
Trauma Recovery & Creative Expression Group Heal from past trauma through art and creative activities in a safe, supportive space.
Wellness & Resilience Group Build strength and feel better by focusing on your emotional and overall well-being.
Other services, like mindfulness or grief support, can give you extra tools to handle stress, feel more in control, or deal with tough emotions. They’re a great way to get support in different areas of your life, making therapy even more helpful. By trying them, you’ll have more ways to feel better and build skills that last.
