Experience
I have experience working with a wide range of individuals and families. Most of my post-graduate work has been in community mental health.
I counsel individuals from various ethnic, racial and socio-economic backgrounds. I support clients with a wide variety of developmental and emotional concerns including relationship issues, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, LGBTQ sexual identity and orientation, self-esteem, alcohol and drug-related issues, PTSD, depression, family concerns, and crisis intervention.
Treatment Approach
I have an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing various modalities of therapy including psychodynamic, CBT and solution-focused/skill building therapies. My work is collaborative in nature, as I believe that people are the experts in their own lives. Through therapeutic conversations, together we gain insights, explore possibilities for a better future and set goals for our work together
Background
I have been lucky enough to have a variety of job opportunities that have allowed me to promote and develop this desire and interest. Shortly after graduating from Gonzaga, I worked at a youth center that focused on providing support for adolescent males with behavioral and substance use issues. I was quickly humbled by that experience and my drive to help them and others who suffer from social, emotional, physical, and behavioral concerns did not waiver, as I continued forward on my path to becoming a mental health therapist.
I also have years of experience working with developmentally and intellectually disabled adults. I worked at a group home for four years, directly providing care and assistance in daily living. This is where my passion in working with individuals with autism, and other cognitive and developmental delays grew. I was able to continue to foster that passion when I had the opportunity to provide mental health care for this population throughout my internship. This experience provided me with an ability to offer support to these individuals in a different and fulfilling way. Through these experiences, I have learned increased patience, gratitude, and being creative and flexible in the services I provide.