When I think of the world and all the people in it, what I want to see is compassion, gentleness, and care. More than anything I try to foster this. In my practice I work from a person-centered approach where I like to bring in an eclectic mix of Art Therapy, CBT, Narrative therapy, and EMDR to suit my client’s needs. With that in mind, I try to create a therapeutic space where the individuals I see can slow down, take time for non-judgmental reflection, process emotions and find the things that help them to live with authenticity and intention. It is out of this perspective that I work to support and collaborate with adolescents and adults of all backgrounds to find growth, seek change and begin the healing process. I endeavor to make therapy a creative and safe space where we can explore how each person is able to find what works for them. In the first few sessions I like to get a sense of who you are, what you are seeking and to make goals for what we will work towards.

Professionally I have spent most of my life working for nonprofits, and trying to be of service to the community. I have spent the last 15 or more years working with teens in crisis and then as a therapist for teens and adults.  I hold a Masters degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from Marylhurst University, and a Bachelors in interdisciplinary arts with focuses in Human studies, Art, and literature/writing. I find that this training informs the creative spirit of my practice even when expressive arts therapy is not used directly. Often I find that those I work with inspire me to seek new growth as a therapist and push me to gain knowledge and further education in directions that I could not have anticipated. I find that working with an open mind and an open heart is the best way to maintain a sensitivity to my fellow humans and what they might need.

In my personal life I find myself at a place that is pretty mellow. I enjoy my two cats, gardening, going to visit the ocean, and making art. I grew up as a weird kid in a small town here in Oregon. As I became an adult I explored the wider world of ideas and people through travel, books, art, music and exploring ways to be in the world. I was very fortunate to find like-minded people with whom to share ideas. This helped me to let go of what I thought life had to be, and embrace other possibilities. This was a big part of how I found my way to the work I do today.

I look forward to meeting you and providing a safe space to explore new ways to heal and grow.