Approach and Experiences

As a private practice therapist, I take a collaborative, pragmatic approach grounded in clinical science. For nearly 30 years, I’ve worked with adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, stress, life transitions, family challenges, and interpersonal difficulties.

I completed doctoral training in clinical psychology (Ph.D.), where I integrated research and clinical practice, and throughout my career I’ve held roles in both clinical care and professional training. This has included serving as Co-Clinical Director at a therapeutic boarding school working with teens, young adults, and families, as well as Director of Research and founder of a predoctoral psychology training program preparing future licensed psychologists. I’ve also presented research and clinical work at regional, national, and international conferences.

In 2014, I launched my private practice, building on decades of collaboration with other clinicians and a commitment to high-quality, evidence-informed care. I aim to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore challenges honestly and work toward meaningful change.

“Being the “best you can be” is really only possible when you are deeply connected to another. Splendid isolation is for planets, not people.” ― Dr. Sue Johnson

Relationship matters.

In our work together, we will focus on understanding what brings you to therapy—what has helped, what has been difficult, and the patterns shaping your relationships and experiences. We will work to make sense of these patterns in a practical, grounded way. You already have strengths and coping strategies; therapy helps bring these into clearer focus while building new skills where needed. The process is collaborative and active, with attention to emotional, cognitive, and relational patterns that affect daily life.My approach draws from CBT, ACT, DBT, and other evidence-based and mindfulness-based practices, tailored to your needs.

Education

I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oregon, where I received comprehensive training in evidence-based practice, taught university courses, and conducted research on emotional and behavioral health across the lifespan. My clinical training included therapy with individuals, couples, and families under supervision, with a focus on anxiety, mood disorders, and family systems.

Following my doctorate, I completed a clinical internship in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. I worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a wide range of mental health, addiction, and medical-related challenges. This experience emphasized integrated care and close collaboration with families.

In 2002, I was awarded a postdoctoral fellowship in the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Stanford University Medical Center. There, I worked in an interdisciplinary academic medical environment providing care to children, adolescents, and families facing significant emotional and behavioral difficulties, further strengthening my commitment to evidence-informed, collaborative clinical practice.

Across these training experiences, I developed a strong foundation in clinical science, relational systems work, and evidence-based treatment that continues to guide my practice today.