I hold a Masters Degree in Psychology from the Chapman University with primary emphasis on Marriage and Family therapy and a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Western Washington University. I am a Washington State Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have a post-masters certificate in Attachment and Trauma therapy and I am a certified Gottman Bringing Home Baby Educator. I have been working with children, adolescents and families since 2001. I use a family centered/systemic approach to therapy.
I utilize different treatment approaches such as Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy, Parenting Education, Play Therapy, Family Systems, Attachment Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is an evidenced, based practice for treating clients with trauma. I believe that the client is central to the therapeutic process and brings with them their unique experiences, strengthens and resources which are invaluable for growth and change.
I work with children, adolescents, individuals and families. When working with children I typically involve members of the family.
I work with children ages 3 and older. My approach with children is non-directive experiential play therapy. Play is the language of children and allows the child to tell me their story in a non-threatening way, work through experiences and express feelings. Through play therapy, children can effectively communicate and resolve issues that have resulted in emotional conflicts and behavioral issues.
I see clients with the following issues: Depression, mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, Trauma, Parenting Issues, Family Conflict, Mood disorders, Grief and loss, adoption, foster care, oppositional defiant disorder, attachment issues, sexual abuse, child abuse and neglect.