Born in Hawaii, and raised in Oregon, I found a profound appreciation for the beauty of my surroundings, as well as the sense of community and support of those close to me. Since my childhood, I have gravitated to helping others in need, both humankind and animals alike. This natural migration to helping others progressed throughout my lifetime, and strengthened my sense of purpose and professional identity to become a therapist.
In 1996, I graduated from Oregon State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in Psychology, working with children and adolescents with mental and physical disabilities. In 2018, I completed my Master’s degree in Professional Mental Health Counseling and Addictions Studies at Lewis and Clark College, a CACREP accredited Clinical Mental Health program. I have received advanced training in substance abuse, gambling addictions, trauma and sexual abuse. I am a current a Licensed Professional Counselor, registered with the State of Oregon (OR license number C6090), and a National Certified Counselor (NBCC number 1094223).
After receiving my undergraduate degree, I spent 8 years working for an international company as an Operations Manager, in the US and Mexico. In this capacity, I gained a greater understanding of the importance of unique humanistic experiences, and utilizing those strengths in the collaboration with others. In 2006, I joined a law enforcement agency where I could combine my professional and educational background engaging with multi-disciplinary professionals who specialize in areas of working with higher needs individuals. I held the role as a specialized training coordinator in the areas of child abuse and domestic violence, and as a Crisis Intervention Team Coordinator, where I facilitated agency and professional collaboration to increase the awareness and access to systems for those experiencing mental health issues, and to increase professionals understanding of problematic behaviors. My graduate and post-graduate experiences include working with those who have experienced incarceration, physical, mental and sexual abuse, problematic behaviors, mental illness, addictions and trauma. These collective experiences have deepened my understanding of working with diverse populations, complex issues, and their intersections.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with populations with complex issues , trauma and those who have experienced abuse. These issues and their pathways are unique to each individual and they deserve a specialized individual approach. My professional journey has led me to working with clients with complex issues and those who have experienced trauma, and my dedication is to work with adolescents and adults. Nevertheless, clients who encounter a variety of life’s challenges, whether it be personal, family, relational, or professional are always welcome.
I am honored to call Oregon my home with my husband, together raising three extremely active boys, with our two dogs, our rescue cats, horses and donkeys, George the tortoise, and several chickens. In my free time I enjoy wake surfing, camping, gardening, mountain biking, swimming, watching my kids sports, and DIYing our farmhouse.