I understand that the idea of attending therapy for the first time can lead to worry and fear of the unknown. Therefore, it is important to me to have a setting that promotes confidence and trust in a relaxing atmosphere without criticism or judgment. If we are honest with ourselves, we all have our issues. Some of these tend to stay around too long for our own comfort level.
My approach is based on Systems Theory which assumes a number of factors have contributed to the “stuck place” we all find ourselves in, from time to time. Examples may include: adjusting to life cycle changes (becoming a teenager or new parents); finding boundaries with children; or dealing with workplace stressors. Families can be complicated. School has inevitable peer pressures. Work is a stressful environment. I believe it is “normal” to not always know how to go about dealing with these difficult situations. Talking about situations can open other avenues to solutions.
Examples of populations I enjoy working with include couples experiencing communication difficulties, families in crisis, adolescents with self-harm (cutting) behaviors, and veterans and their families.
I hold a Masters degree from the University of Oregon, with a specialization in Couples and Family Therapy.