About Me/My Approach

About Me

I am licensed by the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).  I am also certified by the Addiction Counselor Certification Board of Oregon as a Master's Level Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADCIII).

I am a member of the National Association of Social Workers  (NASW) and a member of the Oregon Chapter of American Mental Health Alliance (AMHA).  I earned my MSW degree from Portland State University Graduate School of Social Work in 1998.  In addition to my extensive formal education, clinical training, and work history over a period of 15 years, I have a wealth of varied life experience from which I draw from to serve my clients' needs.

I follow the ethical guidelines set forth by NASW.

My Approach

I passionately believe in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity, no matter how big your problems are.  Each person has an incredible strength to heal.

My style is very interactive and I am an active co-participant in your healing, and in helping you reach your goals.  I offer a safe, nurturing, supportive,  environment in which you may feel free to express your feelings, share your history, and be open to learning and practicing new skills.  I am a strong advocate of respecting your ability to be the primary determinant in this change process.

My therapeutic approaches include:  Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Biopsychosocial Model, 12 step Philosophy and principles, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Strengths-based and solution focused therapies.