About
My life could be defined by the song, “Humble and Kind.” Many of the lyrics capture the values that were instilled in me growing up. Notions like, “...don’t steal, cheat, or lie," "...help the next one in line," and mostly, “...don’t take for granted the love this life gives you." These lines are easier sung alone in my truck than lived, but they do invite us to think, "What ARE the important elements in life?" "How do we find them or live them out?" I believe counseling can help with these questions, as well as the search for a simpler life.
Growing up in the rural timbered Aims Community nestled in the Cascade Foothills, I developed an affinity and curiosity for exploring the great expansive outdoors. Many rich experiences hiking, fishing, and riding my bike to friends’ houses helped me establish self-reliance and a love of nature. Later on, I pursued employment in these same woods and countryside.
In this setting, I also developed a strong sense of connection and relationship with the people. I began to seek out volunteer opportunities to help others within the community, as such I discovered I was gifted in serving people’s needs--especially kids and teens. I gladly began to fill much of my free time volunteering as a coach, church youth worker, and a camp counselor.
These activities energized me to do more. So 28 years into my marriage and after raising two kids, I went back to school with the goal of building a second career around my passion for helping young people succeed.
Education & Certifications
* MA in Counseling, Multnomah University
* BA in Management & Ethics, Multnomah University
* AAS in Mental Health & Human Services, Mt. Hood Community College
* NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching
* Oregon Intervention System Training Level G
"With anything young and tender the most important part of the task is the beginning of it; for that is the time at which the character is being formed and the desired impression more rapidly taken."
Plato, The Republic
Philosophy
I believe the counseling process to be both functional and effective with certain understood limitations. It is a needed process in our modern society to safeguard us as humans. Therapy being relational at its core, can be both helpful and transforming when done well. As such, the therapeutic process can help repair many kinds of broken connections people are experiencing today.
I believe many of these broken connections involve the complexities of family. Children often being the recipients that bear the wounds resulting from these disconnections. A child's spirit is by nature resilient and infectious. My goal in therapy is to tap into this boundless resource of energy in children and adults, which I believe can lead to healing. With this understanding, I hope to collaborate with you by fostering a safe, reliable, and effective atmosphere to interact and engage within.