Philosophy and Therapeutic Approach
The mind is a fascinating and complex system, and I find great joy in learning how it works, including how it responds to life’s circumstances and shapes our experiences. Our stories are unique, personal, and deeply layered. The way we interpret the present and anticipate the future is often influenced by our past.
As your counselor, I want to explore what makes you who you are. Together, we can gain insight into how the pieces of your story fit together. With that understanding, we’ll identify your strengths and skills to help you move through present and future challenges with confidence.
At times, our thoughts and behaviors can feel stuck in patterns we wish were different. These patterns may affect our emotions, relationships, and sense of peace. If you’re experiencing unwanted thoughts or behaviors, I will walk alongside you in uncovering the root causes. As you identify your goals and the life you want to live, we’ll take meaningful steps to help you move out of old habits and into a way of living that feels more aligned, empowered, and fulfilling.
What to Expect in Therapy
Stepping into therapy can feel intimidating, and it’s completely normal to have questions or hesitations. I welcome you to bring any concerns you may have–no matter how big or small. In our first few sessions, we’ll begin getting to know one another and work to identify your personal goals for our time together. I will also take time to explain the purpose and process of therapy, so you know what to expect.
I strive to offer a place where you feel safe sharing the hardships and joys in your personal life. It is an honor to be trusted with your story, and I do not hold that honor lightly. You are welcome to share as much or as little of your story as you feel ready to. Your healing journey is yours; I am here to offer help when needed and to walk alongside you through the process.
Having attended a Christian university for both my undergraduate and graduate studies, I am comfortable integrating faith into our sessions. If that’s something you desire, we can include prayer, worship, or anything comfortable to you that brings God into our space. However, if this is not something you are interested in, please do not feel pressured or obligated to do so. I am here for your needs and want you to feel at peace throughout our sessions.
Personal Qualifications and Experience
I didn’t always plan to go to college. Early in high school, I wrote in my journal, “The only thing I want to do is travel the world and listen to people’s stories.” Little did I know there was a profession dedicated to just that! As I began college, I fell in love with the field of counseling and directed my studies toward sexual abuse prevention and recovery. Since then, I’ve expanded my focus to include substance abuse, recognizing the deep and lasting impact both issues can have on individuals and families. My passion is to walk with clients through these difficult areas, helping them tap into their resilience and strengths to heal.
I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in counseling, and I am dedicated to your care with the guidance of a clinical supervisor throughout the process. I will be drawing from my experiences as an intern at a safe house, traveling internationally, and working for many years in roles that have cultivated my sense of hospitality and connection, such as nannying, barista work, and customer service.
Although I have a strong focus on working with survivors of sexual and substance abuse, I welcome clients from all walks of life. Your story matters, and I believe we can both learn and grow from the therapeutic relationship we build together.
Personal Life and Interests
I love to travel, experiencing new adventures and meeting amazing people along the way. I enjoy being outside in God’s creation, too. I grew up in New Mexico, went to college in Chicago, and now live in Colorado. I am still getting to know Denver and the surrounding mountains. If you have any recommendations, I am all ears!
My husband is from Australia, and it has been fun to travel there and get to know the Australian culture. Currently, it is just the two of us, and we enjoy swimming outside, watching lighthearted movies, and spending time with friends and family. We also love to cook and enjoy yummy food, especially sourdough!
