About Me

Education & Experience:

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington and pending approval in Illinois. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Psychology - Mental Health Counseling. I am also a member of the Washington Mental Health Counselors Association.

I began my career in counseling in 1996 and spent 12 years in the non-profit sector supporting children and families in crisis. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, families and couples, in a variety of settings including: free community counseling for youth at risk, substance abuse treatment programs for youth and parents, crisis intervention, parent education, and in-home counseling focused on keeping families together.

In 2008, I began my private practice in Seattle’s Lake Union neighborhood where I still have an office. Over the last 15 years my work has since expanded to more adult clients, though I still see some teens and families.

Areas of Expertise and Interest:

Much of my work is supporting of people who are learning to live with depression, anxiety and complex family histories. I also work with people who are in the midst of a life transition whether that be separation or divorce, moving into adulthood, parenting and stepparenting, career changes or the retirement process. Work with Multiracial and ‘nontraditional’ families remains a passion for me as well.

Therapeutic Style:

My style of therapy is open and direct. I believe establishing a solid, trusting relationship is critical to working effectively with anyone. I work to create a collaborative and strength based approach that is both practical and unique to the person I am working with. The primary therapeutic technique I use is talking however, I also use some experiential activities such as art, journaling and body awareness. My counseling approach has been shaped by several counseling theories including developmental, systems, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral.