Background
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and family-related issues. My systemic approach goes beyond the individual and focuses on problems within the context of the relationship.
I worked for over a decade in the fields of human development and early childhood education before receiving my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Regis University. I have specialized training in providing trauma-informed treatment for both children and adults using Synergetic Play Therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My specialty areas include behavioral issues/aggression, ADHD, struggles with self-esteem and/or identity, oppositional behaviors/defiance, and childhood trauma/abuse. I have extensive experience working with childhood attachment issues, anxiety and depression.
It can be extremely difficult to bring in a child, or even more so a teenager, into therapy who is resistant to the idea that they might benefit from meeting with a complete stranger. I believe that building a trusting relationship and allowing the child to be their authentic self in the room are conduits to real change.
Once aligning the parent’s goal with the child’s, I strive to help children, teens, and parents learn to use self-regulation strategies to effectively move through life’s challenges.
I understand that making the decision to seek support for your child can be difficult, and I strive to help parents feel comfortable during this time. I believe that parents and primary caregivers are the experts and true growth and change comes from a thoughtful and collaborative process.
Trainings and Certifications
SPT- Synergetic Play Therapy Certification: May 2018 (expected)
SPT- Synergetic Play Therapy Training: January 2017
EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Training: July 2016
DBT- Dialectical Behavior Therapy // Advanced Skills Training: January 2016
DBT- Dialectical Behavior Therapy // Basics and Beyond Training: January 2016
TF-CBT- Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: January 2015
