“Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do”
-Brene Brown
Philosophy and Therapeutic Approach
Our connectedness is part of our humanness. This is the very fabric that weaves us together. The hunger to be seen, and known, and heard, is what makes us human.
What brings us into counseling is the “stuck” part that stands in the way of healthy connection. We feel broken, we feel shame, we feel wounded, we feel alone…we feel stuck. Shame robs us of the ability to feel seen and heard, and makes it very hard to see and hear others in return.
Counseling can provide the bridge from feeling stuck to finding wholeness again, as you work with a therapist who is safe, warm, and non-judgemental. As your counselor, I will walk beside you, helping you navigate the hard parts of your story, and partnering with you as we discover new and healthy ways to relate.
You are incredibly unique, so I want to be intentional to meet you right where you are. Whether you need some support as you go out into the world, as you interact with those closest to you, or as you own your story, I am here for you.
What to Expect in Therapy
As the wise Brene Brown wrote, “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” By taking the step toward therapy you have already demonstrated such incredible courage! As your therapist, it is my desire to create an environment that is safe, authentic, and warm as we begin this journey together.
I believe the therapeutic relationship to be collaborative and equal; where we are partners as we create treatment goals and engage each week. I use various approaches in the counseling room, such as CBT, REBT, existential therapy, narrative therapy, grief therapy, and art therapy. I weave in creative mediums in sessions such as sand, painting, drawing, and play.
Using a different part of your brain to creatively express what’s going on internally often allows your mind to release those thoughts in a different way. Creative expression can be more meaningful and helpful than talk therapy alone.
Personal Qualifications and Experience
I graduated from Colorado Christian University with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and literature. As my psychology classes continued, my hunger for knowledge grew. I was eager to use my heart for people for a greater purpose. After CCU, I worked at a local elementary school, assisting in the Affective Needs program.
I continued my education at Denver Seminary and received my Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health in 2020. I have worked at a large mental health agency as well as smaller group practices. Once receiving my degree, I went back to CCU as a lead teacher and taught graduate-level courses on developmental psychology, as well as courses on grief and loss.
To provide continuity of care for clients suffering from high levels of trauma, I was trained in various trauma and crisis interventions. My heart has only continued to grow in my love for people and my desire to be an effective and honorable helper in the counseling field.
Personal Interests
I love spending time with my family! Some of our favorite things to do are to hike, and visit the library twice a week (we read voraciously in my house!). I also love to paint, read, watch the Great British Bake Off, and play at the park with my son. My husband and I have an adventurous and cuddly cat named Gryffindor (yep, from Harry Potter) and he is such a ray of sunshine for us. We love to hike, watch movies, and build with our vast collection of LEGO’s.
