My Approach
I view counseling as an opportunity for individuals to have space that is their own, where I can assist them in developing treatment interventions that are specific to their personal needs. I believe that there have been many instances in a persons life where trauma, negativity, or distress has occurred and until those parts are addressed, they will continue to impact the persons daily life. This expands out into our family systems and the roles that we have played since birth with our loved ones. From our first memory to now, humans are constantly learning from others and this shapes our experiences of how we see the world and view ourselves.
In my approach, I work with clients from the very first session to build trust and lay a foundation that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I strive to empower the individuals that I work with to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. I maintain a trauma informed lens as I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems with clients and families. Examining the different experiences that a client has had and the messages they received during this time, we can move into a space of reframing, reprocessing and creating space for growth and change. In addition, I utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy and mindfulness skills to decrease distress during times of high emotions and support clients as they develop their own ways of grounding, to use outside of the therapeutic setting.
Specialized Eating Disorder Therapy
I work with clients that are struggling with all types of eating disorder issues, as well as issues with self worth, body image and body dysmorphia. My framework stems from Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating and the belief that our bodies know where they should be and given the chance will guide us to our healthiest versions of ourself. I work with clients at all stages of change, whether you are contemplating seeking help or needing support to maintain your recovery. I believe that everyone is capable of repairing their relationship with their body and food and that we are all deserving of living a life free of the distress and pain that is associated with an eating disorder.
About Me
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and serve clients in both Oregon and Washington State. I am originally from San Diego, CA and graduated with a Masters in Social Work from California State University San Marcos in 2017. I am now living in Bellingham, WA after living in Portland, OR for 5 years. My clinical journey began working in a residential substance abuse treatment center. There I began developing the tools to support individuals living with co-occurring diagnoses, as well as working within family systems to create new pathways of connection. I then found my way into the treatment of eating disorders and discovered my true passion for working with this population. I spent 3 years working in partial hospitalization programs where I expanded my knowledge of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and other issues related to body image, self worth and nutrition. I strengthened my skills in assessment, intervention, individual and family psychotherapy, small and large group work, insurance advocacy and treatment planning. After my time in treatment centers, I worked as a school counselor for 2 years at St. Mary’s Academy in Portland, OR. There I assisted teens and their support systems as they navigate the transition from adolescence to young adulthood. Though highly rewarding work, I found myself gravitating back to my time treating eating disorders and mental health, so I began my private practice in March 2020. Since then I have had the incredible opportunity to support individuals and families in outpatient work, as they find their own versions of healing and recovery. My work and knowledge continues to build as I support others in balancing their mental health and wellness.