I am a licensed independent clinical social worker. I received both a BS in psychology and an MSW from the University of Southern Indiana.
Experience/Philosophy
My work experience as a therapist has given me the opportunity to work with diverse populations that include a wide range of issues. I have worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, grief and loss, recognizing and recovering from psychological abuse as well as other relationship struggles and life transitions.
I use evidence based treatment and I am constantly expanding my knowledge of ways to help clients resolve past issues and lead more satisfying lives. Mental health concerns can impact any of us in our daily lives and present unexpected hurdles. You may have tried to cope with negative self-talk and self-doubt for years on your own. Perhaps you have dealt with family of origin dynamics well into your adult life and notice that it has caused significant stress, fatigue and strain on current relationships. Mental health concerns may arise suddenly after the loss of a job, a partner or family member. Significant feelings of distress may arise even at times when great joy is expected like at the time of marriage or the addition of a child to your family.
Approach
My approach to therapy is to provide a non-judgmental, supportive, collaborative environment where clients feel safe to process and work through their issues. The theoretical orientations that I generally work from include; cognitive therapy, narrative, client centered and mindfulness based approaches. In summary, my approach always keeps the needs and best interest of the client as the guiding principle in the therapeutic process.
As a licensed independent clinical social worker in the State of Washington, I work with individuals and couples as they try to deal communication struggles and issues that may present as problems in their relationships. In addition, I also have experience working with children and adults who present with a wide range of mental health and adjustment issues.
Among my areas of expertise are the treatment of:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Trauma
- Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD)
- ADD/ADHD
- Relationships
- Communication
- Substance Abuse
- Anger management
- Work or career challenges
- Life transitions
- Grief and loss
I help clients identify their personal strengths and build resilience to improve the overall functioning and quality of their lives. Certain patterns of behavior result in increased stress, frustration and even depression. It can be overwhelming when these patterns of behaving and thinking impact both the personal and work spheres of your life. Acknowledging issues and deciding to seek the help of a trained therapist is the first step on the path to enjoying a healthier, less stressful and more satisfying life. I would be happy to guide support you through your journey.