Philosophy on life

To cultivate meaningful connections in our lives, we must find the courage to embrace vulnerability and actively practice it. Throughout my life, I've continually challenged myself in the areas of vulnerability, self-compassion, authenticity, boundaries, and confronting uncomfortable emotions. These are not always easy or pleasant journeys to undertake.

It's often tempting to navigate through life avoiding these challenging aspects, believing they have no significant impact on us. However, seeking counseling can provide valuable support and empower you to confront life's difficulties. I firmly believe that you're not alone in your intrapersonal journey.

We are all human, we will all struggle, and we all can rise.

Therapeutic Approach

My approach for counseling is dependent upon you, while also maintaining my own authenticity.  I tailor my techniques, approach, and exercises to what is appropriate for each person/situation and what we both feel is most effective for you.  I feel it is best to use an integrated approach when working with the complexities that life brings us. 

Approaches Utilized

Overall, I am a person-centered therapist.  I maintain a nonjudgmental mindset with unconditional positive regard for you and your growth throughout the therapeutic process.  I often utilize techniques of cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic therapy because our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and our childhood experiences are all very impactful on who we are and the problems we face. I also believe strongly in a systemic and intersectional approach where there is an understanding and consideration for how the systems, in which we have all been exposed to throughout our life, and your unique identities have influenced the person you are today. With my expertise, I use the most effective and appropriate techniques when exploring growth with you.

Treatment Focus

In my work, I have found that the majority of the problems people experience are rooted in unworthiness and disconnection, and as people, we have a desire to feel worthy and connected to ourselves as well as others.  These experiences are not isolated to you, so you are not alone. To experience connection and take up space in worthiness, involves a practice of both courage and vulnerability.  We all have the strength to do this, we do it every day in the simplest of ways, without even knowing it.  This is referred to as, ordinary courage. 

Therapeutic Relationship

Our relationship, as client and counselor, is essential to your therapeutic experience.  We will discuss our relationship throughout treatment, openly and honestly, as it will help us improve your progress, and communication skills, collaboratively.  While there is a “power dynamic” between us, I believe you know yourself best and so I collaboratively conduct therapy, which I find helps folks feel more empowered in their work. Our relationship is important to examine, as sometimes this relationship can mirror other relationships in your life and provide you with useful insights and skills that may improve your life.

Ethical Practices

The therapy process is a vulnerable and sacred one. In my practice, I uphold the American Counseling Association’s (ACA) 2014 Code of Ethics. I aim to enhance human development throughout the life span, honor diversity, and embrace a multicultural and systemic approach in support of the worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness of people within their social and cultural contexts; promote social justice; safeguard the integrity of the counselor-client relationship; and practice competently and ethically. Please review the ACA 2014 Code of Ethics and let me know if you have any questions or concerns about our work together.

 Education

Modern Sex Therapy Institutes, PhD Clinical Sexology ‘22

• ASSECT, NBCC, and APA-approved CE provider

• Licensed by the Florida Commission For Independent Education

Johns Hopkins University, MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling '16

• Ranked #1 for its School of Education program in the United States in 2015

• Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Stevenson University, BS Psychology & Human Services '14

*I am passionate about educating myself and keeping up with current trends in counseling.  I participate in training yearly and acquire continuing education hours, which are required for licensure. 

Certifications, Licenses, & Memberships

PlusOne Sexology Expert 2024-2025

Washington State Department of Health, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), 2022-Present

American Board of Sexology, Certified Sexologist, 2022-Present

American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (ASSECT) Member, 2022-Present

Washington State Department of Health, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA), 2018-2022

National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), 2016-2021

Counseling Academic and Professional International Honors Society, Chi Sigma Iota, Member, 2015

Psi Chi International Honors Society, Member, 2014

American Counseling Association (ACA), Member, 2014