While I grew up mostly in Texas, I have only more recently returned to start my private practice here in Bryan in 2013. I have worked with children and adolescents informally in various contexts since 2001. Upon completing my graduate degree in Seattle for counseling, I have continued working with children, adolescents, and their families therapeutically. I was an Assistant Instructor at The Seattle School from 2010-2013 for clinical classes, and co-instructed a class on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy during my employment. I worked as a mental health therapist at Atlantic Street Center in Seattle from 2009-2012, and I have been speaking with educators for the last few years regarding self-care and its impact on their work in the classroom.
In my work with families, I typically prefer to collaborate with child and parent, with a mix of play therapy and behavioral approaches to help families grow and find healing in the situations that bring them to therapy. In my work with adults individually, the client’s needs are a more determining factor in approach. Some adults would prefer to find a solution to a situation, and the therapist’s role becomes far more practical and solutions-focused with a short-term goal. For other adults, the work goes deeper, and together, therapist and client identify a longer path through. For all clients, there is a foundational belief that we were born with a drive for growth and healing, and that as we are often harmed in relationship, relationship is also the primary context to find healing.
Specialties:
Struggles with hyperactivity and focus, anxiety and post-traumatic stress, depression, conduct difficulties, depression, grief and loss, vocation
Client Focus:
Children, Adolescents, Families, College Students, Adults
Degree/s:
MA in Counseling Psychology, The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology
BS in Biblical Studies, Cairn University
Additional Credentials:
Licensed Professional Counselor, Texas, #71786
Child Mental Health Specialist
Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist for African Americans
