My Philosophy & Clinical Work

I grew up sheltered from tv and movies, but library books opened up my world. My favorite stories were the ones where the smart girl escaped.

I got my B.A. in English, and I still love talking about the stories that shape our lives. Unfortunately, the stories that influence us the most are the ones we never wanted: family dysfunction, abuse, relationship and sexual difficulties, struggles with faith, discrimination and rejection, anxiety, people-pleasing, shame, or the unrelenting pressures of trying to make this world a better place when there is so much need.

Those harmful stories don’t have to be the main plot of your life.

My approach to psychotherapy is grounded in Narrative Therapy, and influenced by Post-modern and Feminist theories, Solutions-Focused interventions, and I’m certified in EMDR Therapy through EMDRIA.

If you have no idea what any of that means, don’t worry! What you need to know is this: I am committed to therapy that is personalized for you and focuses on meaningful healing instead of just putting you in a diagnostic box.

We’re going to help you get out of your head and into your body in a safe way. We’ll talk about what’s marvelous and powerful about you, not just what hurts. I believe therapy is the realm of imagination and possibility, not just limited fixes for prescriptive diagnoses.

We’ll work together to re-write the stories of your past, heal trauma, and build a life aligned with your identity and values.

My Story

If you want a therapist who knows what it’s like to deconstruct a harmful religion and reconstruct a meaningful life, you’ve found her!

I’ve dealt with betrayal, anxiety, family difficulties, and the pressures of being raised as a good Christian girl. I’ve lost my voice in toxic relationships, deconstructed the religion that tried to silence me, and learned to speak up again. I’ve practiced standing up for myself without losing my cool, burning anything down, or snapping back into perfectionist-people-pleaser mode.

Therapy is hard work, but it worked for me. I improved my relationships with family members, my romantic choices, emotional well-being, and self-confidence. I worked through trauma so it didn’t dictate my decisions and I could live out my own story.

In addition to studying psychotherapy, I have 12 years of experience working in higher education, and I’m still trying to get through all my library books on time.

Your path forward won’t be the same as mine, but I know healing is possible. I’ve done it, and I’ve helped clients like you make changes that last.

My Education & Credentials