My Background & Approach

    I received a masters in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute outside Los Angeles in 1995 and am licensed as such in the state of Oregon. Marriage & Family Therapists are known as "systems thinkers", meaning we are trained to consider the larger context surrounding personal issues and relational dynamics. 

    My graduate program and continuing studies reinforced my natural inclination toward integrative, systemic approaches that include thinking patterns, emotions; reactivity, biological systems, relationships to self and others, gender/cultural influences, and what might be called an "innate wisdom" that's inside everyone of us. The mid-90s were the beginning of an exciting time for brain research and the development of innovative psychotherapies, resulting in greater optimism for humans' ability to heal and thrive. I feel very lucky to have entered the field at this time. 

    Since the 90s, I've been dedicated to learning a variety of "cutting edge" approaches with significant emphasis on the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy model and have been an IFS trainer and presenter for the last 10 years. I've also trained in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, couples counseling, and various mindfulness and existential/humanistic perspectives. While my work with clients is ultimately tailored to a particular person's issues and readiness, these approaches are the ones I know best and believe hold great potential for addressing a wide range of presenting problems.

    I grew up outside of Chicago and have lived in Portland since 1995. My previous career in the music business was a successful one that ultimately drove me to seek greater satisfaction in life and a new career. I have had a wide range of personal experiences that give me great appreciation for working through deep pain and the rewards from having done so. I consider myself a genuinely contented person, grateful to walk alongside others finding their way.

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