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 satisfaction. I am currently in a doctoral program in 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

Yes, with a few exceptions. Counselors have a legal and ethical duty to protect. If clients say they intend to harm themselves or somebody else, a counselor may need to break confidentiality to keep someone safe. In extreme cases, a counselor may be compelled by a court order to release part of a client's records. I follow best practices to keep the information confidential.

Couples Counseling usually starts with both individuals in the session to discuss what they want to get out of therapy. I ask each individuals about what they would like to be different in their relationship and where their heart is towards their partner and the relationship. Sometimes a person can love their partner but be dissatisfied and frustrated about the relationship. Another may love their family and the ways the relationship functions, but they do not feel romantic or sexual attraction, or they have lost respect for their partner. I assess if individuals are leaning in or out of the relationship, if the individuals want/value the same thing in a relationship, to what extent the individuals have the motivation and capacity for the change needed, and how much pain or broken trust needs to be repaired. Then, we create a personalized plan. This may require some healing of the past, repairing broken trust, gaining skills and insights, learning how to identify the core issues behind the conflict, how to resolve conflict, how to identify attachment styles and manage differing personalities, needs, and values, and what is needed to maintain a positive trajectory. I am passionate about helping couples heal and reach their full potential.

Gottman Therapy is a research-based therapy that aims to help couples build stronger relationships. It provides counselors a framework to address the most common concerns that couples have: disarm conflict, improve verbal communication, increase emotional, sexual intimacy, respect, and affection, remove barriers that create feelings of stagnancy, and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship.

Sexual wellness counseling helps improve your physical, emotional, and mental health related to sex. With specialized training in sexual wellness, I address issues such as sexual dysfunction, trauma, relationship problems, body image issues, sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, and sexual health concerns like STIs or unplanned pregnancy. I help you understand your sexual needs, communicate effectively with partners, and develop healthy sexual behaviors. Benefits include improved communication, increased self-esteem and body image, reduced anxiety and stress, increased sexual satisfaction, and overall improved health and well-being.

YES! I am an affirming advocate for Queer/LBGTQ+ individuals and couples. I have special training from the World Professional Association of Transgender Health and experience with transgender individuals at various stages of their transition. I have experience leading support groups and providing safe and confidential therapy for Queer/LBGTQ+ individuals, couples, and nontraditional couples practicing ethical non-monogamy. If you are a queer person who is considering Counseling, here are some things to look for in a therapist: • Someone experienced in working with queer clients: This means that the therapist has training and knowledge about the unique issues that queer folks face. • Someone who is affirming and non-judgmental: This means that the therapist will accept your sexual orientation or gender identity and will not try to change you. • Someone who is a good fit for you: This means that you feel comfortable with the therapist and that you can trust them to help you.

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.