My Credentials
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Oregon #6192
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Washington #60628827
Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work, Arizona State University, 1997
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Oberlin College, 1994
In addition to the formal degrees and certificates listed above, I regularly attend on-going training workshops and seminars in a variety of subjects to continue to learn new techniques and stay abreast of current research to best serve my clients.
A little bit about doing therapy with me…
I am a master’s level therapist and have been working with clients since 1997. Almost 3 decades, whew! In that time, I’ve learned how important it is to listen with curiosity and know that in every struggle there is an intention and attempt to be safe, be loved, be at peace and feel we have some power to get our needs met in the world. Whatever your current challenge is, I have seen how every part of us, both the ones we’re proud of and the ones that frustrate us, are trying to work for us. Some of these ways of being in the world just may need healing, understanding and care, learning there are now new options and choices we didn’t have before.
I’ve also learned that validation and compassion are wonderful tools and at the same time it’s important to have new ideas, new perspectives and even sometimes a challenge to how you’ve been thinking or doing things so that you can try something new. Sometimes just seeing things from a new vantage point can open up a whole new understanding of what’s happening in your world. So I’ll be direct in what I notice as we talk. I won’t assume I’m right, just that I notice something that might be worth exploring. Then you decide, you are the one who will know if something feels right or helpful.
To better understand what you might experience in our sessions, here is a bit more infomation about the primary techniques and theories that I use in this work:
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- A deeply compassionate, non-judgmental exploration of the different parts/aspects of yourself that may, at times, seem to work against what you want. Learning how to shift into new ways of being in the world that feel grounded, safe and empowering.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- A traditional talk-therapy approach that can deepen self-awareness around patterns and beliefs, as well as practical tools to help shift into new ways of thinking and behaving.
Acceptance and Committment Therapy (ACT)
- An approach that fosters skills to face difficult emotions rather than avoiding them and expand your abilities to consciously choose how you show up in the world.
Mindfulness and body-centered techniques
- a variety of skills and practices that help you better relax and calm your nervous system when needed, better notice and respond to physical cues of distress so you become the expert at knowing what you need.
If you have any questions about my training, experience or credentials, please feel free to call me at 303-915-5567 or e-mail me by clicking the link HERE.
On a more personal note,
I live in southeast Portland with my two kiddos, two cats and a rabbit. I grew up in the Willamette Valley and returned after living in Denver, Colorado for 17 years. It is so good to be back in the green treed haven that is Portland. And the coffee! Oh, the coffee!
I love gardening and all things green (mossy rock walls are a particular fave 🙂 I enjoy hiking, camping, gardening and spending time at the coast. I also love to read, knit, draw Zentangles and practice yoga to relax and rejuvenate. My own search for peace, contentment, and a spiritual foundation to life has brought me much joy and excitement. I never cease to be amazed at what we can discover about ourselves and our potential for transformation. I am passionate about my own continued growth as well as supporting others to find their own version of happiness.
Faith
When you walk to the edge
of all the light you have
and take that first step
into the darkness of the unknown
you must believe that one of two things will happen:
There will be something solid for you to stand upon,
or you will be taught how to fly.
by Patrick Overton
Inner Light Counseling 