I believe that the goal of counseling is to produce movement toward positive change, whether that change is intrapersonal, interpersonal, a specific behavior or attitude. My approach is grounded in therapies that have been known to work, but I am flexible in my approach since every client brings their own set of values to therapy. I know therapy only works when the client is motivated for change and trusts the therapeutic relationship; my role is to guide clients through that change process.
I have a personal as well as professional commitment to social justice and I try to reflect that in my work. I am sensitive to how social issues affect a person’s well being. Rather than feeling victimized, it is important to recognize the individual strengths one has and build resilience despite oppressive forces. I guide clients to become more resilient in the face of daily stressors, realizing that social change is more likely to be slower than personal change.
I received an M.S.W. from the University of Washington in 1991. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Washington State. I have been trained in the field of adolescent and adult mental health and have practiced counseling since 1987. I began a private practice in 2008. I have specific training and expertise in a variety of issues: adoption, sexual orientation, substance use and abuse, sexual and physical abuse, domestic violence, eating disorders, grief and loss, depression, perfectionism, anxiety and adolescent development.
In addition to my clinical work, I lead workshops on issues of cultural and individual identity for youth. I also participate in community actions against racism and other forms of oppression.
