I was born outside of Washington DC and spent five of my formative teen years living in Vienna, Austria. I have a love for travel and have enjoyed living abroad and learning about other cultures. I enjoy bringing people together.  I am extremely curious about people and communication. I take that curiosity into my work and am forever awed at people’s resiliency in difficult times and the ability to experience positive change.

Experience

Since 1986, I have worked in a variety of settings, including a runaway shelter for teens, a wilderness therapy program, and as a certified school counselor in the U.S. and overseas. I worked in a battered women’s shelter, taught skiing to the blind, and developed social service programs for the government of Yap State in the Federated States of Micronesia.  Whether it is working with individuals, families, school staff, or organizations, I enjoy the challenge of improving the way of human nature.

Therapeutic Techniques

I use an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques depending on the situation or problem with which the teen, adult, couple or family presents. These techniques include cognitive-behavioral therapy, adventure based therapy, systems approach, mindfulness techniques and psycho-educational information, as needed. These techniques work well together to help clients establish stability, develop healthy relationships, manage difficult emotions, develop a positive self-image and feel contented and accepting of themselves and their life.

My Credentials

• BA in Social Work
• MS in Counseling
• Certified School Counselor in the state of Washington
• Registered Counselor in the state of Washington, working towards licensure
• Building Successful Learning Communities (WSU Statewide program) Trainer
• WSU 4H Challenge Trainer/Facilitator
• American Counseling Association member
• Association for Experiential Education member

I am committed to ongoing education and research in my field and follow all ethical guidelines directed by my profession.