I believe all humans are optimistic, extremely resilient, and have the right to attain a fulfilling life. In my practice, I work to provide psychoeducation, or the truth behind why we do what we do when we do certain behaviors, in an environment where patients can have a normalizing experience and receive validation. My non-judgemental style strives to meet the client in their own space and to not impose values. To me, continual improvement is a mindset focused on the idea that we are never done evolving as individuals, and that each person’s journey is important and unique.

Approach

I am adept at recognizing what may be going on for someone diagnostically through clinical conceptualization and working from a place of therapeutic alliance and rapport. My direct style seeks to make informed decisions that are balanced between the emotional and logical. As a result, I’m a strong believer in data. Using scientific facts and neuropsychology to supplement one’s knowledge about their struggle can reduce the perception something is wrong with them. This helps to formulate a perspective that what they are experiencing is normal and even expected as a human being.

In order to better help individuals realize their own potential, I work within the Adlerian theoretical alignment, which states that past experiences, dysfunctional thoughts, actions, and behaviors lead to current emotional difficulties. Adlerian theorists do not intend to explore or change emotions directly. Rather, they believe that if people become aware of their emotions, they can change irrational beliefs and alleviate emotional difficulties toward a sense of improvement.

Background

I live to help people. I’m a very social being, and helping others brings me great fulfillment. I grew up in San Diego and earned a degree in sociology from USCB. In 2003, I moved to beautiful Bend, Oregon, where I enjoy the spectacular outdoor lifestyle that Central Oregon has to offer with my husband and two young children.

From 2000-2011, I applied my sociology degree on a macro level of understanding through my work as the director of marketing for a variety of different businesses. However, in my free time, I found myself gravitating toward reading more and more material about behavior and psychology. So, in 2008, I decided I wanted to go back to grad school for counseling, and earned my Master of Science in Counseling (MS) and Clinical Mental Health at OSU-Cascades in 2013. I have never been more content and gratified in my work life.

Education, Licensure, & Certifications

• Registered Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Oregon (OBLPCT, #C3901).
• Master of Science in Counseling (MS)-Clinical Mental Health, Oregon State University-Cascades, 2013
• Bachelor of Science in Sociology (BS), University of California at Santa Barbara, 2000
• A Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Scientific research has proven that therapy is effective. But effectiveness doesn’t depend solely on the therapist’s techniques, education, or school of thought; at least 60% of the value of therapy lies inherently in the relationship between the client and the therapist. That means finding the therapist who is right for you is extremely important.
So let’s get to know each other. Schedule a complimentary consultation with me today.