Philosophy and Therapeutic Approach

At the core of my therapeutic approach is empowerment. I believe – with a little knowledge, guidance, and hard work – every person has the capacity within them to heal, change and grow mentally, physically, and spiritually. While I am still developing my approach, I like to incorporate a lot of cognitive behavioral therapy and narrative therapy into my work with clients. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an approach that suggests many of our psychological struggles have their roots in unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior that we have established. Those patterns can be changed and replaced by healthy processes. Narrative therapy is all about your life “story,” giving meaning to your experiences and developing your understanding of who you are. I want to create a space for you to feel safe and accepted, where you can learn more about who you are and how to create a healthy life for yourself. 

As for adolescents and children, my philosophy is much the same. Learning to communicate emotion and feeling is such a crucial step in our development. Through interventions like play therapy, they are given the space to learn how to express themselves and process what they think, feel, and see. 

What to Expect in Therapy

Going to therapy can be intimidating, scary and challenging. My goal is to relieve some of the pressure by creating a warm, authentic, and welcoming environment where you feel safe to be vulnerable. Everyone has their own mess in their minds and lives, I’m honored to dig into yours with you. Everything we do is entirely voluntary, and I want you to feel comfortable sharing about your life, thoughts, and beliefs with me.

Personal Qualifications and Experience

I am currently in my last year of my Master’s program with Liberty University for Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I hope to specialize in trauma and work with children and adolescents. I am currently pursuing further training in areas like play therapy, adventure therapy and movement therapy.

I spent the last few years as a wilderness guide with an outdoor ministry called Summit Adventure. I led backpacking, mountaineering, skiing and rock-climbing expeditions with children, teens, adults, and families. I loved my job, but as I was spending time with my students in the wilderness, I realized that I wanted to be better equipped to help others through the various personal and mental health challenges they were facing. I’d love to combine my love for the outdoors and high-adventure experiences with counseling in the future.

Personal Interests

If you can’t tell yet, I love the outdoors! I enjoy learning about geology, astronomy, flora and fauna and all the amazing details throughout God’s creation. In my free time I love to mountain bike, rock climb and ski. I also love traveling and exploring new places (especially where there are mountains).

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