Mental health counseling is a psychotherapy that helps people improve their mental health and well-being. It is often referred to as "talk therapy." Mental health counselors like me work with individuals and couples to address various issues, such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and relationship problems. I use only proven best practices, effective tools, and techniques. I work with clients to create a custom plan based on their unique personalities, values, needs, and goals. My eclectic approach is empathic and supportive, practical, and successful.

For over 20 years, I have worked with individuals and couples to improve well-being and relationship satisfaction. • Doctorate of clinical psychology • Master’s degree in Psychology & Professional Counseling • Member of the American Counselors Association • Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) Washington • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Oregon • Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) California • Certified Pre-marriage and Marriage Counselors Prepare-Enrich • Gottman Institute of Marriage • Emotionally Focused Couples Counseling • Internal Family Systems • Discernment Counseling (Can this relationship be saved?) • Sexual Health/Sex therapy • Gender issues and LGBTQIA+ • World Professionals of Transgender Health (WPATH) • National Board Certified Counselor

A: At Bright Future, confidentiality is a core part of our counseling practice. All information shared during individual, couples, or marriage counseling sessions is kept strictly confidential to create a safe and trusting environment for clients. This means that your personal details, discussions, and progress are protected according to professional ethical standards and legal requirements. However, confidentiality may be limited in specific situations such as when there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, cases of abuse, or when disclosure is required by law. This is explained in detail in the consent form.

A: At Bright Future, couples counseling is a supportive and structured process designed to help partners improve communication, resolve conflicts, and deepen their emotional connection. During relationship therapy, you can expect a safe, confidential environment where both partners are encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings openly. Our experienced relationship specialists guide you through identifying underlying issues, understanding patterns that affect your relationship, and developing practical strategies to rebuild trust and intimacy. Sessions typically involve exploring individual perspectives as well as joint goals, with a focus on fostering mutual respect and effective problem-solving. Whether addressing challenges like communication difficulties or sexual wellness concerns, Bright Future tailors counseling to meet the unique needs of each couple, helping you work towards a healthier, more fulfilling partnership.

A: Gottman couples counseling is a research-based therapeutic approach designed to strengthen relationships by improving communication, deepening emotional connection, and resolving conflicts effectively. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method uses scientifically validated techniques to help couples identify destructive patterns and build skills such as emotional regulation, empathy, and conflict management. At Bright Future, I integrate Gottman therapy principles into our couples and marriage counseling services to provide tailored support that improves communication, fosters trust, and builds intimacy. This approach is especially beneficial for couples seeking to rebuild their partnership or prevent future difficulties, as well as for those managing anxiety or depression impacts on their relationship. By focusing on creating a positive interaction cycle, Gottman counseling at Bright Future helps clients develop lasting tools to nurture a healthy, resilient relationship.

A: Sexual wellness counseling at Bright Future is designed to address individual or relational concerns related to sexual health, intimacy, and satisfaction by providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of sexuality. This specialized counseling helps clients overcome challenges such as low libido, performance anxiety, past trauma, infidelity, or communication barriers about sex, ultimately enhancing overall well-being and intimate connection. While couples counseling focuses broadly on improving communication, conflict resolution, and relationship dynamics between partners, sexual wellness counseling specifically targets sexual issues either individually or within the couple. Therefore, although related, couples counseling and sex therapy are distinct services at Bright Future, each tailored to meet different aspects of relationship and personal growth needs.

A: Yes, Bright Future is committed to providing confidential, affirming, and inclusive counseling services tailored to Queer and LGBTQ+ individuals. I ensure a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where clients can explore their unique experiences related to identity, relationships, mental health, and sexual wellness. I prioritize culturally competent care that honors each person's authenticity and privacy. I have training with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), and I have experience working with transgender and gender non-conforming clients.

Queer folks and individuals of the LGBTQ+ community may face unique issues in Counseling, such as: • Internalized homophobia or biphobia: This is the feeling of shame or self-hatred about one's sexual orientation or gender identity. It can be caused by various factors, including negative messages from society, family, or religious institutions. • Coming out: This can be a difficult and stressful process, and it can be helpful to have a therapist to talk to about the challenges and joys of coming out. • Discrimination: Queer folks may experience discrimination in housing, employment, healthcare, and other areas. This can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. • Violence: Queer folks are disproportionately at risk of violence, including sexual assault and hate crimes. This can have a devastating impact on mental and physical health. • Family rejection: Queer folks may be rejected by their families, which can be a very painful experience. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, abandonment, and self-doubt. • Trauma: Queer folks may have experienced trauma related to their sexual orientation or gender identity, such as bullying, harassment, or violence. This trauma can have a lasting impact on mental health.

A: Discovering that your spouse or partner has been unfaithful is profoundly challenging and can trigger a range of intense emotions. I recommend beginning with self-care and allowing yourself space to process your feelings without immediate pressure to make decisions. It is important to seek professional support to navigate the complex emotions of betrayal, confusion, and loss. At Bright Future Counseling, I provide individual and couples counseling in a safe, confidential environment where you can explore your emotions, understand the underlying issues in your relationship, and work toward healing, whether that means rebuilding trust together or finding a path forward independently. We also address related concerns such as anxiety and depression that commonly arise in these situations, ensuring holistic support. Bright Future Counseling can empower you with coping strategies, communication tools, and clarity to make informed decisions about your future with confidence and resilience.