Experience & Education

I believe life’s journey can be both wonderful and painful.  Sometimes we need a little support along the way to figure things out.  Counseling offers a chance to explore one’s life story and identify the stumbling blocks that are holding us back from achieving our goals.

I work with people experiencing anxiety, ptsd, grief, and those dealing with life’s everyday stress.  I believe that each of us have a variety of strengths that we can call upon to help us work through challenges.  Sometimes it is just a matter of identifying those strengths.

I grew up in the pacific northwest and have lived more than 8-years overseas.  My spouse retired after 21 years in the Air Force.  I can relate to the joys and frustrations of military life.  I enjoy triathlons and healthy living.  I am especially fond of dogs and peacocks.

I earned a PhD from Gonzaga, a Master of Divinity from California Lutheran University, and a Master of Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma.   I finished my supervised therapy hours in 2006 and received my Washington State Mental Health Counselor License.  My educational along with more than 15 years teaching experience in social services and mental health has given me a foundation for working with many people and seeing them through to successful lives.  Should a client choose, we can also explore issues with a Christian approach.  I am an ordained reverend with the ELCA church which is a “reconciling in Christ” ministry accepting all people as beloved children of God.