Philosophy and Therapeutic Approach

I absolutely believe that you have what it takes! No matter your past experiences, no matter how equipped you feel, I believe you can find resolution and a way forward in your life. Sometimes, this way forward might require help from a therapist–especially if you have difficult circumstances or physical factors that feel like roadblocks in the way. 

Therapy is here to help you feel equipped to move forward. It’s a space for you to voice whatever troubles are preventing you from living your full life. To provide you with tools that you may need to shed light on solutions. To provide “aha” moments. To relieve the pain from past or present harm. 

My goal as your therapist is to create a safe space where you feel at peace sharing your story. I’m here to help you discover what you need to work through those roadblocks. And I’m here to remind you that you have what it takes.

What to Expect in Therapy

In the therapy room, I will be fully present with you. Our initial sessions are an opportunity for you to share what is important to you and discuss what you want to achieve from our time together.  We will collaborate on your goals as well as a plan to reach them. I may have suggestions that you can incorporate or reject at any point along your journey, but this plan is always in your control. 

Trust is built, not assumed. So it’s important to me that we work on building trust in our therapeutic relationship so that you feel safe to be open and forthright. As you share, my goal is to get you to the place you want to be mentally and to help you feel confident that you can move forward in life with your new strength and skills.

I have a large pool of understanding to draw from as I sit with you. I have experienced plenty of personal and business failures, successes, pain and sorrow, joy, health obstacles, miracles, and relational ups and downs. I believe that personal growth never ends, and I am passionate about helping others experience the growth they long for. 

If you would like to incorporate faith into your healing process, I would be more than willing to discuss how we can do that at your comfort level.

Personal Qualifications and Experience

I have a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with an emphasis in accounting from Metropolitan State University in Denver (1988), and I am currently completing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Grand Canyon University. Although my formal education has given me great experience, in my opinion, there is no greater experience than life itself. What we gain through trial and error in work, interpersonal relationships, and life’s circumstances can aid in our growth (if we are open and willing to learn!).

It took only two years for me to realize that accounting was not for me, and I longed to switch to a person-centered occupation. Yet it took many job changes over the years to get to where I am now. Just prior to COVID, things started to shift into focus when I found myself driving for Uber and Lyft 60+ hours a week. I was visiting with people all day gaining knowledge, imparting wisdom, and sharing laughter and tears. These experiences truly moved me, and upon personal reflection and encouragement from my own therapist, I began the rewarding journey of becoming a counselor.

Personal Interests

I was born and raised in Colorado and have lived here my entire life.  I grew up in southwest Denver on the border of Harvey Park and Bear Valley where I attended Kennedy High School. My high school sweetheart lived a mile away from me, and though we never met until her freshman year in high school, we have now enjoyed 41 years together (35 of those married). We have three wonderful adult children and amazing grandkids. 

I grew up in a family that practiced overflowing acceptance. My parents’ occupations gave me the opportunity to meet people from many different socio-economic, political, and religious/spiritual backgrounds, which gave me a unique perspective and heart for meeting people where they are without judgment. 

I am honored to meet you, and walk alongside you in your unique journey.