I have worked in a variety of settings and with humans of all ages and stages. My approach has been described as warm, collaborative, compassionate, and direct when needed. As both a therapist and a person who has received therapy, I do not hide my humanity from my clients. I value being a "human in the room" with my clients, striving to balance acceptance and change while working together to find solutions and cope with life's many challenges. I have trained in various therapeutic modalities and blended these skills to respond to the needs of each client.
MSW - Social Work, George Fox University
I decided to work in mental health due to a lack of bilingual providers in this field. I also love the focus on the mind and heart as the main forms of intervention, and the assumption that all people have what they need within them to heal.
I love caring for my 35+ houseplants and native perennial pollinator garden. I also love to run and hike, especially when the wildflowers are out. I love salsa and bachata dancing with friends. I enjoy eating delicious food and spending time with close friends, family, and my partner.
I take a moment to check in with my body, scan for tension, breathe deeply, and let one thing go that is out of my control.
I have read and reread The Kingkiller Chronicles series at least 3 times, because each time I do, I gather more insight and connections that I missed the last time. The focus on language, words, poetry, and double meanings is endlessly fascinating to me.
With movement of all kinds! Whether it's yoga, dance, walking, breathwork, or caring for plants, moving stuck emotions through my body helps me to recharge after difficult days. I also get lots of sleep!
I have a slightly anxious, entirely loving poodle named Sir Terence Waffles (Waffles for short). He is the very best boy! Whenever I do yoga, he will wait until I am in corpse pose to come by and put his paw in my hand. He loves holding my hand — I think it makes him feel calmer.
If you or someone you know is experiencing an emergency or crisis and needs immediate help, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Here are some additional crisis resources.