My Approach to Helping
I founded The Portland Couples Counseling Center on the guiding belief that with the proper support, encouragement, counseling, and education every couple is capable of having the relationship they truly desire and deserve.
My dream, and driving conviction --the passion that gets me out of bed in the morning-- is the belief that couples form the foundation of both the family and the larger community.
I also believe that if couples are thriving, then we as individuals, as well as our families, children, and communities will flourish as well.
I believe that every couple is capable of co-creating a warm, caring, joyous, loving, affectionate, intimate, lasting, and sexually fulfilling relationship.
I also believe that it is possible for couples to work through even the most challenging issues while maintaining a sense of dignity, compassion, and respect. This is my highest hope for you and your relationship.
More Info About My Practice
I have a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute near Santa Barbara, CA home of the Joseph Campbell Library, the James Hillman archives, and the Marija Gimbutos Collection. And I have an MA in Clinical Psychology from John F Kennedy University, in Berkeley, CA. My education included training related to individuals, children, couples, families, and groups. Clinically I specialized in becoming a marriage counselor at one of the country's premier private training facilities: Pleasant Hill Counseling Center (Pleasant Hill, CA).
Additionally, I have an MBA degree from the WP Carey School of Business ("Top 50 Business Schools," US News and World Reports) with an emphasis in finance. Coupled with my training as a marriage counselor, my finance knowledge proves helpful for couples seeking to understand their emotional challenges related to money and work; and, how those challenges play into relational conflicts.
My post doctoral education and training is devoted exclusively to relationships. I have trained with some of the leading authorities in the world, including both Dr. John Gottman (of the acclaimed Gottman Institute) and Dr. David Schnarch (the first recipient of the Professional Standards of Excellence Award from the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists). I am also trained in, practice daily, and teach mindfulness. I bike, and practice both Pilates and yoga.
I have lectured at Stanford University and have been called upon as a relationship consultant, appearing on CNBC.com, KATU 2 TV, and KOIN 6 TV. I have also written and published training materials for graduate psychology students with permission from the American Psychiatric Association.
If you have any questions for me about my practice as a relationship specialist or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to give me a call. I look forward to spending a few minutes on the phone talking with you about your relationship. Our initial conversation will help me understand why you are seeking couples counseling, and how I may be of support.
