“People are disturbed not by things, but by the views they take of them.” ― Epictetus
We often become stuck in a pattern of viewing our world through a certain lens. Many of us do not realize that we can become empowered to view our world in a different way. While we can’t always change difficult situations, we can work together to view those situations through a new lens in order to create a different perspective and produce effective solutions. I use Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic Existential, and EMDR approaches to help my clients uncover their genuine “truth” and to help them live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
My Approach
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to address dysfunctional emotions, behaviors and cognitions through a goal-oriented procedure in the present. Therapeutic techniques may include keeping a diary of significant events and associated feelings, thoughts and behaviors; questioning and testing beliefs that might be unhelpful and unrealistic; gradually facing activities which may have been avoided; and trying out new ways of behaving and reacting.
Humanistic Existential therapy uses a holistic approach to therapy by looking at an individual’s meaning, values, and human potential. This therapeutic approach stresses the notion that individuals are inherently good, and celebrates human strengths while simultaneously addressing universal limitations.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is designed to resolve unprocessed (or “stuck”) traumatic experiences and memories in the brain. When issues remain “stuck” even after traditional “talk” therapy, that often indicates that past trauma is at play in maintaining unhealthy behaviors, perspectives, and emotions. Unlike “talk” therapy, EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about the distressing issue. Rather than focusing on changing emotions, thoughts, or behaviors, EMDR therapy allows the brain to resume its natural healing process so the client can continue moving toward self-actualization.
I am currently working with:
- Adolescents (16 years old+)
- Adults-individually
- LGBTQ+ community
- People of all races and ethnicities
- People of all gender identities
…through a trauma informed lens of social justice/anti racism/equity
Background and Education
I have a master’s degree (MA) in counseling psychology from Pacific University, and a doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD) from California Southern University. My EMDR training was completed through the EMDR International Association. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Oregon (License #3553).
My background includes experience working in Human Resources, where I focused on employee concerns in the workplace. This experience translates into my therapy practice, where I am able to help my clients work through related issues, such as work/life balance, finding a meaningful career, or helping clients learn effective communication skills. I have also worked in community mental health with a diverse client population of adults and adolescents, who were struggling with issues such as, depression, anxiety, addiction, and social phobia. In addition to my therapy practice, I work with a local healthcare organization on mental health research studies, with study topics ranging from teen depression and anxiety, to internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for depression.
My Specialties Include
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Relationship Issues
- Work and Career Issues
- Stress Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Trauma
- Life Transitions
- Gender Identity Issues
- LGBTQ+ Affirmative Practice
“And the day came when the risk to remain tightin a
bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom” – Anais Nin