my background

I received my M.A. in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology from Naropa University, known for its experiential learning programs. Transpersonal (or Integral) psychology is unique in that it embraces orthodox psychology (Psychodynamic, Behavioral, Humanistic/Existential) as well as broader subjects including consciousness, spirituality & mysticism, body-mind integration, among other things. 

My training focused on the theoretical knowledge, the skills, and the experiential learning needed to work with others competently within the broad range of what it means to be a human being. In line with this, I honor diversity to the fullest extent.

I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Oregon in 2004. My graduate internship was with the University of Colorado at Boulder, with an emphasis on career counseling and helping others to find their calling. I also have a background in addiction counseling. Additionally, I continue to pursue training in Hakomi, Attachment work, CIMBS, couples work, to name a few.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Oregon by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. I abide by its Code of Ethics. My license number is C4023

My Philosophy & Approach...

I believe we not only have an innate drive towards wholeness and the healing process that can lead us there, but we are actually always already beautifully complete. The challenge is often about recognizing and living from this state of being. This is a process of transformation, and it begins within each of us and each of us must walk our own path of unique challenges and victories. We are our own expert on ourselves. And yet, throughout this journey, the company of fellow travelers makes the journey richer, deeper, and if nothing else, a little more bearable. A good therapist is much like a fellow traveler.

Successful therapy requires a delicate balance between safety and challenge. I endeavor to ensure that my clients feel that their fears, feelings, thoughts, and needs will be compassionately received in a safe, non-judgmental manner. This allows for the client’s habitual patterns to be challenged and, potentially, their deeper core-wounds to be explored and healed.

Each of us is shaped by our experiences throughout life, including the dynamics within our family of origin, significant life events and, especially, significant relationships. What we derive from these experiences are the beliefs, messages, ideas, and memories that shape how we relate to ourselves, to others, and to the world at large. The c!ollection of core material shapes how we move through life. More often than not, it has been with us so long we have difficulty seeing it is even there.

While this process is natural and normal, our core material is not always accurate or healthy. When our core material includes self-limiting beliefs and distortions, we are more likely to feel disillusioned, overwhelmed, terrified, or confused by life. This can be especially true when facing the inevitable: stress, painful choices, transitions, and, of course, aging, illness and death.

The therapeutic relationship provides a safe and open place to explore, contemplate, remember, feel, experience, express, and heal the core beliefs, ideas, and wounds that hold us back from living a full and satisfying life. I do this in the spirit of nurturance, curiosity, humor, and absolute respect.