Welcome! Seeking help for your problems or distress can be the beginning of a new chapter in your life. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life stress, the effects of trauma, relationship issues, or problems with addictive or compulsive behaviors, you are not alone. Working on your issues in a safe, respectful and supportive environment is key to change.
I have been working with people with these and other issues for 16 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe in the capacity for people to recover from psychological issues and develop healthy lives. I would be honored to be part of that process for you.
We first engage to see what your needs are and what you would like to accomplish in therapy. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, health enhancement and various specific therapies developed for particular issues. I routinely use "feedback-informed care" - getting your input each session on progress and problems. This has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of therapy as well as client satisfaction.
I have worked in various clinics as a therapist, clinician supervisor, manager, as well as provided education for the community, medical and therapy clinicians. I have also been part of a research team focused on substance abuse and public health as well as published on emotional dissonance - a key component of the burnout process at work.
Personally, I enjoy spending time with my family, spending time hiking and exploring in the outdoors, and aging gracefully! I also use many of the coping skills that I teach, as I believe that the goal of becoming physically, mentally, socially and spiritually integrated is an ongoing, lifelong process. I am always in the process of learning and believe that sharing what I have learned is really the best way of keeping healthy.