My Approach to Helping
I help people navigate anxiety and changing life stages as they reimagine their personal stories and goals for the future.
I help teens, adults, and the elderly who are dealing with relationship struggles, identity development, chronic pain & medical issues, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, and self-harm. I endeavor to help you find your footing, so that you can face your future with greater confidence and peace of mind. I have extensive training and experience in various forms of theory and practice, which include treating each individual in a holistic manner, recognizing the importance of family and social systems in a person's growth, building on one's strengths, and seeing people as creative and social beings who need encouragement to thrive. We'll work together on establishing goals for your treatment, and we'll address what is happening in your brain and your body when you are experiencing anxiety and stress in order for you to learn how to calm your systems.
More Info About My Practice
I believe in the healing power of connection, vulnerability, and relationship. It is my desire for everyone to have access to evidence-based, excellent mental health services with a counselor who fits their particular needs. I am passionate about growing diversity within the field, researching and advocating for greater representation of minority populations in counseling and counselor education. As a lifelong Oregonian, I, like the forest mushrooms, thrive in the cool and moist climate of the Northwest. My family embraces the outdoor life of hiking, campfires, and owning more than one Subaru. I am married and actively working to launch my three children into adulthood (we don't talk enough about how difficult this process can be!). Our family practices social justice, participating in marches and community actions that support our Black neighbors, women's rights, and the LGBTQ community. I am an avid fan of the Timbers and Trail Blazers, no matter how often my heart is broken.
Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance
Do you know what helps the most for successful counseling? It's not the theories or even the specific practices that are used -- most are pretty good and show similar positive results. The biggest factor in successful therapy is the relationship between the client and the counselor. I think you'll sense that in my work with you. I truly want you to feel better, and I will work with you to figure out the best ways to make that happen. I'll give you new tools to try, I'll encourage you, I'll help you explore the roadblocks that keep getting in the way, and I will believe in your ability to change and reach the goals you have for yourself.
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.