“Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” -Brene Brown
Education and Training:
I have earned a Master’s degree from California Lutheran University in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy, with an emphasis in Psychological Trauma. I earned my Bachelors degree from California Lutheran University in Psychology with an emphasis in Health and Wellness/Family and Child Development. I was employed at a non-profit agency working with children and families involved in the welfare system. Many of the children and families had experienced significant trauma and abuse. I worked closely with the children, parents, caregivers, and other family members to assist with creating a safe and healing environment. I focused on processing childhood trauma, strengthening family systems, implementing coping skills, providing therapeutic parenting strategies, and a safe space for continued growth. I also have experience providing therapy services in a middle school setting and a community counseling center that served all ages. Before earning my Master’s degree, I worked as a Behavioral Interventionist with children who had Autism and Down Syndrome.
Therapeutic Approach:
I have an eclectic approach and utilize various therapeutic approaches. I believe that everyone has their own unique story and therapy should be tailored to fit each individual’s needs. The approaches and interventions I utilize include cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered, narrative therapy, attachment theory, family systems therapy, and solution focused therapy. I also utilize a trauma informed lens when working with clients, and I believe that understanding someone’s trauma is essential for being able to provide the proper emotional support needed for healing. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment that fosters healing and growth.
Specialty Areas:
-Trauma/PTSD
-Foster Care/Adoption Challenges
-Depression
-Anxiety
-Social Skills
-Coping Skills
-Parenting Skills
-Life Stressors and Transitions
-Shame
-Self Esteem
-Strengthening bonds of attachment
-Child and Adolescent
Education and Training:
I have earned a Master’s degree from California Lutheran University in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy, with an emphasis in Psychological Trauma. I earned my Bachelors degree from California Lutheran University in Psychology with an emphasis in Health and Wellness/Family and Child Development. I was employed at a non-profit agency working with children and families involved in the welfare system. Many of the children and families had experienced significant trauma and abuse. I worked closely with the children, parents, caregivers, and other family members to assist with creating a safe and healing environment. I focused on processing childhood trauma, strengthening family systems, implementing coping skills, providing therapeutic parenting strategies, and a safe space for continued growth. I also have experience providing therapy services in a middle school setting and a community counseling center that served all ages. Before earning my Master’s degree, I worked as a Behavioral Interventionist with children who had Autism and Down Syndrome.
Therapeutic Approach:
I have an eclectic approach and utilize various therapeutic approaches. I believe that everyone has their own unique story and therapy should be tailored to fit each individual’s needs. The approaches and interventions I utilize include cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered, narrative therapy, attachment theory, family systems therapy, and solution focused therapy. I also utilize a trauma informed lens when working with clients, and I believe that understanding someone’s trauma is essential for being able to provide the proper emotional support needed for healing. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment that fosters healing and growth.
Specialty Areas:
-Trauma/PTSD
-Foster Care/Adoption Challenges
-Depression
-Anxiety
-Social Skills
-Coping Skills
-Parenting Skills
-Life Stressors and Transitions
-Shame
-Self Esteem
-Strengthening bonds of attachment
-Child and Adolescent