Approach

As an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 Trained Therapist, I specialize in helping people move forward through anxiety, codependency, perfectionism, low self-esteem, shame, challenging life transitions, and trauma.

My counseling approach is highly intuitive, empathic, and collaborative. I strive to create a supportive environment where people feel respected, understood, appreciated, and empowered. I enjoy collaborating and working toward specific therapeutic goals. To help build a foundation of thriving, I help people develop practical, compassionate self-care strategies across multiple areas of wellness.

Education

I received Masters degrees from Winona State University (Clinical Mental Health Counseling), and Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (Human Development with specialization in Spirituality and Creativity). I completed my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree (Studio Art) at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

Training

Prior to moving into private practice I served a mental health counselor for Project Pathfinder (sexual abuse prevention program); Gundersen Health System (La Crosse, WI); and La Crosse County’s Mobile Crisis Unit. I completed my Internal Family Systems training through the IFS Institute.

Theoretical Orientation

While I am primarily an IFS therapist, I also draw on tools from other modalities including solution-focused therapy, somatic therapy, narrative therapy, and arts-informed therapy. My background in studio arts and spirituality also gives me unique insight into working with those who identify as creative, visual-thinking, and/or spiritually-oriented.

Personal

I’m kind-hearted, intuitive, and a bit quirky. In my free time, I enjoy yoga and expressive arts, like painting and writing. Relationships and meaningful conversation are central to my life, and my adult-aged child is the light of my life.

As a survivor of sexual trauma, I’ve spent many years on my own healing journey. This process deepens my empathy and informs my commitment to creating a safe, supportive space for clients to explore their own paths to healing