PHILOSOPHY AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

I believe therapy works because connections with other people influence and change us. From my own experience in therapy, the safe space to simply exist has allowed me to flourish. I hope to create a similar space for you.

I want to honor you and your story by creating a space that accepts you and empowers you through the research, skills, and expertise I hold.

In the counseling world, there are many different thoughts about how therapy works, and why therapy works. What I do know is that there is often a disconnect between what we may be able to cognitively know and what we embody within ourselves. What I have found to be most helpful is pressing into the and unweaving any effects of shame.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THERAPY

I may be a therapist, but you are the expert in your life! Deciding to come to therapy can bring up a myriad of emotions, especially if this is the first time you are reaching out. Looking for therapists and making an appointment are not small feats to write off, but steps to celebrate!

My goal is to create a secure place for you to land as you work through the hardships of life. Together we will find the pace and timing you want to follow for your healing. Remember you are not alone, and as your therapist, I am excited to discover with you what your life needs in this journey. 

In our first few sessions, we will work together to answer questions you might have about your treatment (or your child’s!). Once all of your questions have been answered, we will get to know each other and make sure we are a good fit, and then talk about your desires in coming to therapy. Once this foundation has been established we will work together to build trust–if I am given this privilege in your life, I don’t assume; I earn your trust.

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

I graduated with a B.S. in psychology with an emphasis in human services from my school in Wisconsin. I did not declare right away, but I loved learning about the brain. It wasn’t until I was two years in, I realized I had more classes focused on psychology than any other class. 

While I loved what I studied, I chose a different career path after graduation with a Christian non-profit. Through my work, I noticed the high points of my day were the moments when I got to sit and listen to people’s stories. I knew the honor of journeying alongside someone would be more aligned if I became a counselor.

I began my master’s at Denver Seminary in January of 2021, and I will graduate in December 2023. I love sitting with people of all ages. As I journey through higher education to better equip myself to help every person walking through my door, I look forward to working with children, women, men, couples, and families in their path to healing.

PERSONAL INTERESTS

My favorite fiction book is A Man Called Ove by Fredrick Backman. The way Backman writes captures the human experience from grief to redemption through the power of community. Along with reading, I love to care for the houseplants in my home. I currently have 30 throughout my house (yep, I just counted), and love to keep an eye out for new plants to add to my collection. 

When I first moved to Denver, I began my hunt for the best coffee shops, and even created a spreadsheet of all the ones I visited and rated them in different categories. Each coffee shop is rated for coffee, seating, design, and plants (of course!), and then is given a two-word phrase to describe the energy. Currently, my favorite is Sweet Bloom in Westminster because it scores high in all the categories! 

Along with houseplants and my coffee shop rating system, I love to do things that give me joy like geeking out on nerdy movies: any Star Wars and Harry Potter fans? I love painting with watercolors, creating flower bouquets, and making treats!

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