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About Me

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Choosing a therapist is an important decision, and I’d like to share a little about my background and experience so you can feel confident in your choice.

I’ve had the privilege of serving the West Michigan community for over 12 years, helping individuals navigate mental health challenges and addiction recovery. My passion is creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow.

Interesting things about me- I speak some conversational Spanish (unfortunately not enough to provide therapy in), I have lived in 3 states, traveled to 36 states and 15 foreign countries. My husband and I love to travel together and have been fortunate enough to share this with our children. I enjoy kayaking, gardening, snorkeling and just being outdoors as much as possible.

Education & Credentials

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology – Grand Valley State University (2008)

  • Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology – Western Michigan University (2012)

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

  • Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC)

Professional Experience

My career began at a community mental health agency, where I provided:

  • Initial evaluations and assessments

  • Individual and group therapy (including jail-based programs)

  • Screening and placement for higher levels of care

  • Referrals for detox, residential treatment, and psychiatric services

  • Intensive outpatient therapy for mental health and addiction

This experience sparked my love for group therapy and gave me invaluable clinical skills and resources.

I later joined Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, where I worked for over seven years in interdisciplinary settings alongside social workers, psychiatrists, and addiction medicine specialists. My work included:

  • Outpatient individual therapy

  • Facilitating groups such as Women’s Seeking Safety (trauma and addiction recovery) and Mood Management for Chronic Pain

  • Leading skills groups in detox settings

  • Participating in specialized committees and task forces, including:

    • Clinician Advisory Committee

    • Senior Diversity, Equity & Inclusion leadership

    • Seeking Safety group coordination

    • Co-creating a Chronic Pain therapy group

These roles allowed me to serve clients from diverse backgrounds and deepen my expertise through ongoing training and collaboration.

How I Can Be Helpful to You

I offer in-person and telehealth therapy for adult clients within Michigan who are ages 18 and up. I treat issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, anger, mood impact of chronic pain and other chronic health conditions, LGBTQ issues, diversity and culture issues, some personality disorders, as well as phase of life transitions.

I utilize evidence-based techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered, and Solution-Focused therapies.

I practice a strengths-based method to help build motivation for change while emphasizing what is already going well as I find it more successful and encouraging for clients. I find that humor can help in learning to find perspective and joy, even during challenging circumstances. This work is deeply meaningful to me, and I find value in the stories and perspective gained from it.

My Commitment to You

I believe therapy is a partnership built on trust, compassion, and respect. My goal is to provide a space where you feel supported and equipped with tools to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re seeking help for mental health concerns, addiction recovery, or personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you.

A woman with curly blonde hair, glasses, and a warm smile, sitting in a room with bookshelf and windows in the background.