“When there is nothing left to lose, we find the true self—the self that is whole, the self that is enough, the self that no longer looks to others for definition, or completion, or anything but companionship on the journey.”
— Elizabeth Lesser —
My passion for people and their stories began while supporting teens and young adults in high school and college settings. During that time I found that building relationships with the students, being present for the honest, messy, humanness of connection, filled my life with purpose and meaning. The Covid-19 pandemic brought with it the opportunity to come home to beautiful Oregon and transition into the mental health field. As a therapist, I see myself as a guide on the trail, with you all the way. There will be things I offer you along the way, but more importantly, we will create space for the wisdom already within to emerge.
I work with clients of many backgrounds and experiences, but find that often, the clients who make their way to my office are curious about themselves and their inner world and process. Client who find me are often looking for counseling that reconnects them with their heart, senses, and aliveness. Through my time as both a counselor and a client, I found a deep love for Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). IFS or “parts work” which is clinically proven to address trauma and anxiety and create lasting change.
This is a place where all of you is welcome.
If you’d like to know more, or are ready to schedule an initial consultation, please reach out. I am excited to connect with you, hear your story, and support your goals.
Therapeutic Approach
My approach to therapy is primarily informed by in the Internal Family Systems model (IFS). Each of us has many internal "parts" or personalities within us. They show up in our conversations all the time! We have all said things like:
“Part of me is worried about…”
”Part of me is so anxious about…”
“A part of me wants to….but another part of me feels like that’s a bad idea.”
Through the practice of IFS, you will be able to get to know these pieces of you. Perhaps some parts of hold memories of your past, maybe you have a Critic that constantly tears you down, or an angry part, who lashes out at the first sign of danger. All parts are welcome here. Together, we can extend curiosity and compassion, offering each piece of you space to be known and cared for, maybe for the first time. IFS is a trauma informed, somatic, and clinically proven modality that can lead to increased calm, clarity, and connection within you. For more information on IFS Click Here.
Additionally, I am influenced by the Psychodynamic model which says that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by unconscious forces and childhood experiences. Our work will always be tailored to your strengths, interests, and desires and it is my goal to work collaboratively with you to determine the best approach for your goals and needs.
Qualifications
Licensed Professional Counselor
Oregon #C10810
Master of Arts
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Adams State University, 2023
Counseling Intern
Kelle Debruin Counseling, 2022-2023
Bachelor of Arts
Religion, Walla Walla University, 2015
Professional Development
I have completed over 200 hours of training in Internal Family Systems and am working to become an IFS Certified Practitioner. In addition to IFS, I have focused my professional development on neurodivergent affirming care and trauma informed approaches to Autism assessments. Psychedelic preparation and integration continue to be an area of interest and passion in my learning as well.
Internal Family Systems Level 2
Internal Family Systems Institute (2025)
Internal Family Systems Level 1
Internal Family Systems Institute (2024)
16 Thinking Heart: 16-Week Comprehensive IFS Course
With David Stern (2024)
Everything Carries the Light of Self
With David Stern (2023)
A Trauma-Informed Somatic Approach to Autism and ADH
With Nyck Walsh, LPC (2024)
Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices in Adult Autism Evaluation
With Dr. Emily Haygerman (2024)
Psychedelic Sitter and Psychedelic Guide Training
With Daniel McQueen and the Center For Medicinal Mindfulness (2023)
Introduction to Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Module 1, Polaris Institute (2022)
