My Approach to Helping
When does wanting something more become an issue? When our normal desire for change has no recognized solutions. When our wants lead to self-rejection or frustration that keep those we care about at arms-length. When we disengage to avoid expressing a need, but get accused of not caring. We prepare for arguments before entering the room and the script plays out as expected, but it's not what we want. These are common struggles without generic answers. Relationship dynamics are as unique as the individuals who live them, which is why change requires specific approaches in addressing issues.
More Info About My Practice
As a licensed Couples and Family Therapist with more than ten years experience stabilizing relationships I provide a respectful, nonjudgmental, confidential space to move beyond entrenched interpersonal and relational struggles. It is through the facilitation of your process and mutual understandings that lives become enhanced every day at our office. Over years of providing individual therapy I have come to recognize the importance of systemic approaches. As your relationship technician my role can be to support parenting strategies, engage noble intentions of adolescents, or safely mediate family conflicts. I provide the help you need to get the change you want.
My Role as a Therapist
When I meet with couples, the relationship is my client. It is not my job to take sides. Like a dance instructor I try to teach each partner how to change their side of the dance. Both are responsible for the current issues and the changes going forwards. When I meet with individuals, it is my job to validate and be a good advocate for try client's issues and concerns.
Theoretical Influences that Guide My Work
Throughout my college education studying psychology I worked as a crisis supervisor teaching intervention to new therapists. I received my masters degree in Family Therapy in 2004 at the University of Oregon. In Connecticut I studied and provided the evidence-based practice of Functional Family Therapy engaging the nobel intentions of at-risk youth. I have been working in the Vancouver area for the past four years as a home-based family therapist for Family Preservation Services diverting children from mental health hospitalizations. I am currently in private practice both in Portland and in Vancouver. I am accustomed to mediating disputes, motivational interviewing, Collaborative Couples therapy, and the utilization of Gottman therapeutic approaches.
