Approach and Experiences

As a private practice therapist, I take a collaborative, pragmatic approach grounded in clinical science. For 30 years, I have worked with adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, stress, difficult life transitions, family challenges, and other interpersonal struggles. My goal is to help you build practical tools while gaining deeper self-understanding.

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.

I have worked in residential treatment, outpatient agencies, and university clinic settings, alongside psychiatrists and physicians. In 2014, I launched my private practice, building on decades of collaboration with other clinical providers and on my commitment to high-quality, evidence-informed care. I aim to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their challenges with vulnerability and work towards meaningful change.

If you'd like to discuss starting therapy, feel free to reach out for a consultation.

“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 possess valuable strengths and coping strategies; therapy helps bring these into clearer focus while building new skills where needed.

The process is collaborative and active, drawing from evidence-based and mindfulness-based frameworks like CBT, ACT, and DBT, all tailored to fit your unique needs. Together, we will pay close attention to the emotional, cognitive, and relational patterns affecting your daily life so you can move toward meaningful change.

Again, please reach out for a consultation if you'd like to discuss starting therapy.

Education

I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oregon, receiving comprehensive training in evidence-based care. Alongside my clinical work with individuals, couples, and families focusing on anxiety, mood disorders, and family systems, I also taught undergraduate courses and conducted lifespan behavioral health research.

Following my doctorate, I completed my clinical internship within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Working across inpatient and outpatient settings with children, adolescents, and adults, this immersive experience deepened my expertise in integrated care, addiction, 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. Providing interdisciplinary care to youth and families facing complex emotional challenges in a medical academic environment significantly reinforced my commitment to rigorous, evidence-informed practice.

Together, these milestones provided a strong foundation in clinical science and relational care that deeply informs how I support clients today.