My Approach to Helping
Our mental health impacts every aspect of our lives. Reaching out for support takes courage, and asking for help often feels vulnerable. We are not meant to cope with life difficulties or emotional pain on our own. As human beings, we are meant to be in relationship and community with others. The research continues to show us, time and time again, that we need healthy connections with others to thrive. I support clients in gaining a greater understanding of themselves, deepening their relationships, and strengthening healthy ways of coping. I believe a safe, non-judgmental environment is essential for therapy. I work to foster a space where clients feel seen, understood, and cared for, while also challenged to make the adjustments necessary to reach their goals. My approach is relational, collaborative, strength-based based and integrative. While I commonly utilize theories and techniques from several different perspectives, such as psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and narrative therapy, I believe that no one approach is the best fit for every individual. So, I attempt to use tools and perspectives that best match the client’s personality, experience, and goals in seeking therapy. I am proud to be an affirming mental health care provider and work from a multicultural perspective.
My Therapy Focus
My education and training have included extensive experience in the fields of psychology and spirituality. I have had the honor of working with many clients seeking the support of therapy due to painful experiences with organized religion (religious trauma), including those who identify as LGBTQ, ex-evangelical andor former Catholic. I also have extensive experience working with individuals who cope with ADHD, whether diagnosed in childhood or adulthood. During my clinical training I?ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of treatment settings. I discovered I was especially drawn to working at university counseling centers (UCC) and went on to complete my APA Doctoral Internship at the University of Northern Colorado. In UCC settings I supported students both in undergrad and graduate school as they navigated higher education environments socially, emotionally and cognitively, including those with ADHD andor learning disorders. Additionally, prior to this career, I spent seven years in the corporate business sector. As such, I have had the wonderful opportunity working with adult professionals (especially women) regarding leadership, development, career satisfaction and, if applicable, how to navigate the workplace coping with ADHD. Other areas of clinical focus include women's issues, burnout, life transitions, sexual identity, gender identity, parenting support, anxiety, depression, ACOA, and divorce.
