My philosophy and approach
I believe that everyone has unique strengths, needs, and styles that should be valued and treated in specific ways. I have an eclectic approach with particular emphasis on the person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and family systems theories. This means that I value a non-judgmental approach to therapy, I want to help you gain skills to change the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that you find are not helpful to you, and I view the family as a unique system of individuals working together. I may offer to use art therapy as part of the assessment and treatment process, creating art therapy interventions that address the goals in your treatment plan. I believe in providing a safe and supportive place for you to share your concerns and to use your strengths and creativity to heal and grow.
Education and training
I have a Master's degree in Art Therapy Counseling from Marylhurst University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a Minor in Gender Studies from Lewis & Clark College. My job experience includes work in outpatient clinics, residential treatment, day treatment, and schools. I have worked for several years with adults, adolescents, and children who have experienced sexual abuse and with adolescents and children who have had sexual behavior problems, including adolescents on probation for sexual crimes. I have worked directly with families who have been involved with DHS and the juvenile justice system.
Professional publications and associations
In addition to being a therapist I like being involved in other professional activities to help advocate for the profession of art therapy and to connect with other creative arts therapists.
I believe that everyone has unique strengths, needs, and styles that should be valued and treated in specific ways. I have an eclectic approach with particular emphasis on the person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and family systems theories. This means that I value a non-judgmental approach to therapy, I want to help you gain skills to change the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that you find are not helpful to you, and I view the family as a unique system of individuals working together. I may offer to use art therapy as part of the assessment and treatment process, creating art therapy interventions that address the goals in your treatment plan. I believe in providing a safe and supportive place for you to share your concerns and to use your strengths and creativity to heal and grow.
Education and training
I have a Master's degree in Art Therapy Counseling from Marylhurst University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a Minor in Gender Studies from Lewis & Clark College. My job experience includes work in outpatient clinics, residential treatment, day treatment, and schools. I have worked for several years with adults, adolescents, and children who have experienced sexual abuse and with adolescents and children who have had sexual behavior problems, including adolescents on probation for sexual crimes. I have worked directly with families who have been involved with DHS and the juvenile justice system.
Professional publications and associations
In addition to being a therapist I like being involved in other professional activities to help advocate for the profession of art therapy and to connect with other creative arts therapists.
- I was part of the steering committee with the Portland Creative Arts Therapies Association (CATA) for over 10 years until the association's retirement
- I have given several presentations related to art therapy at national and local professional conferences
|
In my life outside of work I am a mom of two young kids. I've lived in Portland for over 25 years and love the nature, food, and overall vibe of Oregon. I am originally from Minnesota and appreciate the midwest quirks that are from my original home.
|
