New to Grow
I have been licensed for 35 years. I received my degree in clinical psychology from George Fox University. I specialize in PTSD, depression and anxiety. I have used EMDR and CBT to address trauma. I enjoy helping people discover stories they have been living that no longer work for them. Hope is an essential quality to have as you embrace new narratives and ways of being in the world. I am committed to honesty and compassion as you discover new ways of being. I employ a style that is relational and collaborative. Faith has been an important part of my journey and I am comfortable incorporating that into your work if you desire.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
I like to get some history of your life during our first visit and begin to connect the dots between what you have experienced and where you are today. I value collaboration and will share a little bit about me, my experience and anything else you would like to know about me. I find it helpful before you leave our first session to give you first impressions of where we might go together and how we would get there. It is important that you feel comfortable and have trust in me and the process for therapy to be helpful to you.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I am a good listener and want to hear your story before I jump in with suggestions or share my perspective. I strive to be humble while being direct and honest about my impressions and what I believe will be most helpful to you. I have a lot of experience with trauma and understand the need for careful preparation and grounding before addressing the specifics of what you have experienced. I am certified in EMDR, and CBT and have used other modalities to address trauma.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I enjoy working with people who are a little unsure about this therapy process but are willing to dive in and take some risks. Helping people find hope in the midst of challenges is extremely satisfying. Trauma in particular can damage trust in oneself and others. Helping you find your voice and move forward with purpose is an important goal of therapy. Trust, Confidence, Purpose...these are big words that can be confusing and elusive. I intend to be supportive and honest as you pursue finding a different path. I won't have all the answers but I will walk with you and provide the tools and wisdom I have managed to acquire through the years. I have worked with veterans, the Native American community and others who have experienced trauma.
Psychodynamic
I was trained in psychodynamic therapy and utilize it to inform me of how previous relationships and dynamics have contributed to today's challenges. I help the client understand how their current personal and relational struggles are related to previous relationships and how they can change the narrative of their life story.
EMDR
EMDR is a powerful tool to help heal from trauma by integrating the traumatic experience or experiences into a larger memory network which softens the impact of the trauma and allows one to move forward with their life in a productive and meaningful way.