Hello and welcome to my practice. I am a counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I work with people who have experienced religious trauma or other traumas in their lives due to past physical, sexual, emotional, and generational traumas. I am a member of the LGBTQ community and also identify as Christian, which can be challenging at times. I have come to understand the needs of folks living with trauma and LGBTQIA identities, the intersection of these identities, and what works best for recovery.
Great to meet you
Therapeutic Approach
I offer both telehealth and in-person sessions in Renton, WA. My therapeutic approach integrates work both in session and between sessions. Working on personal change is a marathon, not a sprint. The process I use is building a therapeutic alliance, values work, developing a personal narrative, and interventions that will guide and lead a person to living the life they want. I use many metaphors in therapy and focus on helping you find your best self and value in your life.
I have specialty training in several areas related to trauma and will work with you to craft a treatment plan based on your needs and wants to help you grow from past trauma experiences. I don't promise to take away the trauma because that is impossible, but I can help and support you on a journey of recovery to live a calm and satisfying life.
Specialization and Focus
I specialize in trauma and LGBTQIA work, specifically working with LGBTQIA folks who have been turned off by faith and community. I am both Christian and gay and work with folks in this space to reconcile their identities and focus on recovery from trauma. I also work with men in therapy, specifically with depression and anxiety. I also have extensive experience working with trans-identified folks and people in polyamorous relationships. I consider myself a sex-positive therapist and don’t shy away from talking about all aspects of someone’s life.
I also enjoy providing group therapy and I have an open men's group that I am starting to run soon - stay tuned. I would like to meet any man who wishes to attend the group first, and then provide details of how to log in. The group focus is on emotional literacy and listening to improve relationships with other people in your life, whether it's at work, home, or socially.
Professional Background
I am an LMHC in WA and have worked as a counselor for nearly 20 years. I earned my MA in Community Counseling from Western Michigan University and my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Walden University. In addition to therapy work I am also a full-time Core Faculty at Antioch University Seattle. I have trained in several therapeutic areas, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and parts work in Internal Family Systems therapy.
My belief in providing therapy is a collaborative process in which I support and encourage people I work with to make positive changes and growth in their lives. Each person is unique, and the approach that each person needs is highly individualized. I provide a welcoming and compassionate space for people to explore themselves and grow.
A little bit more about me
What you can expect from our first session
I always have some form of “homework,” whether it’s journaling, reflecting on the session, or suggesting activities to do between sessions. I also enjoy focusing on the goals we develop in our first session to achieve treatment success.
When I’m not doing therapy…
I enjoy being outside, playing video games, reading, doing home improvement projects, traveling, and spending time with friends on weekends.
Associations:
Are you ready to take the first step?
My Values
Confidentiality
I value your privacy and you can be assured that I won't share any information without your consent or required by law.
Creativity
I value creativity and use this as a tool to develop individualized treatment plans for each person.
Compassion
I value compassion for you in our work together and compassion for all the lived experiences you have had that bring you to counseling.
Acceptance
I value acceptance of you and the way you show up to therapy, all parts of you, and provide a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings.
Reach out to me today!
Please complete the form below to schedule an appointment.
I will try my best to accommodate your request and will be in touch ASAP.