I work therapeutically with adults to help them find more effective ways of navigating life’s challenges. Overall, my therapeutic work reflects a combination of how our past relational experiences influence current functioning, with a focus on developing more adaptive ways of coping and being. Together, we seek to understand the “whys” of your emotional distress and effective ways of resolving those concerns. As a trauma-informed therapist, I approach my work with an understanding of how distressing experiences have shaped your current functioning. This means we will explore behaviors that others may judge or that you may feel shame about with compassion and a deep understanding of their origins. Together, we’ll examine these patterns to uncover your needs and work toward greater happiness, safety, and overall well-being.

I earned my PsyD at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, an APA-accredited program, in 2008. I completed my APA-accredited internship at Northwestern University's Counseling Center in Chicago, and postdoctoral fellowship through The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, splitting my time between working in the clinical training department of the Counseling Department and working with underserved, low income youth and teens at a residential center. I've had invaluable experiences working with people from all walks of life in various settings including university counseling centers, psychiatric hospitals, homeless shelters, therapeutic day schools, and pediatrician offices. I've been in private practice since 2010, and started SCAW in 2018.

Issues I often address with people include depression, anxiety, perfectionism, overachievement, control, workaholism; singlehood/couplehood; life transitions (new job/job loss, move, engagement, divorce/breakup, etc.); personal identity, existential questions (“Who am I? Why am I here?”). I also work with couples who are wanting to develop more effective ways of relating to one another. I utilize evidenced-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based approaches, and dialectical behavioral focused techniques to meet the individual needs of my clients. I take a collaborative approach in my work with clients to develop a treatment plan that will position clients to achieve their therapeutic goals. As a licensed psychologist in Washington state and a PSYPACT credentialed provider, I offer telepsychology services to clients across participating states.

Having been in the field for some time, I have witnessed the profound impact that systems have on all of us, particularly the most marginalized. I find it imperative to be involved in making systemic changes. Currently, I serve as the Treasurer and a Board of Trustees member for the Washington State Psychological Association. I also chair the Sponsorships and Partnerships Committee and co-lead a Special Interest Group dedicated to addressing insurance barriers for providers and community members.