My Approach

As a student specializing in couples and family work, my theoretical orientation is integrative. I draw from multiple modalities and honor common factors that strengthen the therapeutic relationship and encourage growth: empathy, unconditional positive regard, congruence/genuineness, and cultural sensitivity. My work is attachment-based, emotion-focused, and neuro-affirming. I commonly use The Gottman Method, cognitive-behavioral, narrative, somatic, play therapy, and expressive/art-based modalities. 

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I believe each person is an expert in their own experience, so I work collaboratively with clients to determine their preferred language, treatment plan, interventions, and resources. As a person with ADHD, I seek to notice, affirm, and find value in the uniqueness of Neurodivergent people and others who see themselves as distinct, non-conforming, and on a path of curiosity as they find acceptance for themselves. 

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Statement on Christian Counseling: As a counselor who is Christian, I am open to incorporating elements of Christianity, spirituality, and other religions into the counseling process in ways that align with the client’s values and beliefs. My work is governed by the ACA Code of Ethics and Oregon State Laws and Statutes, so my primary ethical virtue is to do no harm. Therefore, all interventions must be clinically appropriate and evidence-based. While I recognize the importance of practices like prayer and reading scripture, I encourage clients to take the lead with these elements if they choose to incorporate them into the therapeutic process, and I am happy to provide referrals to practitioners who align with client expectations when they differ from my preferred practice. ​

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