FAQs

What is your training?

I received a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Fox University. My coursework covered various counseling topics with a focus on trauma. I completed a certificate program for Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for children. The clinical training I received emphasized coming alongside children, teens, and families to provide tools for mental health and relational concerns and support trauma integration through individual, family, and parent sessions. I also have experience providing therapeutic groups for adolescents and teens.

What is your experience with children and teens?

My experience with youth started when I was in high school when tutoring and volunteering in youth programs. I continued to work with families and youth as a Behavioral Support Specialist for children and adolescents through a nonprofit, providing mentoring sessions for those with mental health needs as well as working with foster children and their families. My current primary focus has been working with a wide range of ages from 6 to 17 to support children, teens, and their families.

What is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate?

As a Licensed Professional Associate, I have completed my coursework and clinical internship required by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. As an associate, I will gain more clinical experience and receive ongoing weekly supervision by Heather Vliet, LPC, to obtain my full licensure through the state of Oregon.

What can I expect if I come to see you?

My approach to therapy is child/family-centered with continual collaboration between the child, the family, and myself. Throughout the therapeutic process, I utilize Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies to support children and their families to navigate life’s challenges. For children, I use a mix of child-centered play and directional play to assist them in gaining relational skills, building self-awareness, and understanding the emotions and behaviors of self and others. For teens, sessions involve more talk therapies but can also include interactive activities to aid the therapeutic process..

What are therapy appointments like? What will we do?

During our first sessions, our primary focus will be on getting to know one another and discussing goals for treatment. I love using games, play, and humor to build rapport and establish trust. This can look like playing on the floor with Legos, board games, drawing, or playing a made-up game together. For teens, a connection is established mainly through talk therapies, humor, as well as utilizing games or other creative activities. My primary focus is to provide a safe and warm space for you to share so I, along with others in your life, can support you in navigating life’s challenges.