Practice Description
I work with adults and couples who may be struggling with issues related to the following:
Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Highly Sensitive/Emotional People, Substance Abuse, Co-Dependency, Domestic Violence, Bipolar, PTSD/Trauma, Chronic Impulsivity, Family Conflict, Self-Harm Behaviors, Grief/Loss, Anger, Assertiveness, Self-Esteem, Coping skills, Communication skills, Interpersonal Relationships, Intimacy, and Emotion Regulation
I believe that a therapist needs to be well-versed and familiar with different techniques and theories in order to provide the best treatment for the many complex needs of an individual. I draw from the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
Professional Experience:
My personal experience as well as my research in helping children cope with interparental conflict after a divorce helped me to appreciate the challenges that come from a high conflict divorce as well as research based practices to help children cope.
My work as a counselor at the Betty Ford Center (now Hazelden-Betty Ford) in California provided me with the training, experience, and confidence to work with individuals and/or their families struggling with the disease of addition to find the peace and serenity they all desire.
My time counseling women and children in a Domestic Violence Shelter helped to heal their often unseen wounds. I can bring this experience and knowledge into our counseling session to help you heal, create healthy relationships and to keep you and your family safe.
Working with children and families in a community counseling agency, as well as my role in developing the chemical dependency & mental health programs at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center were instrumental in preparing me to work with individuals from all backgrounds who are struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. In addition to my private practice, I also continue to work at the hospital facilitating counseling groups on the in-patient unit for those who were admitted due to suicidal/homicidal ideation, psychosis, and detox. I also facilitate the Intensive Out Patient Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (IOP-DBT) group for those who struggle with emotion regulation.
As an Adjunct Faculty at Grand Canyon University (GCU), I stay abreast of the latest research and techniques to not only prepare the next generation of counselors, but also help my clients with the latest evidence based approaches.
A little about me:
Finally, although I have dedicated much of my life to helping others, I try to practice what I preach, a balanced life. I am married to my best friend, have a goofy German Shepherd dog, and 3 vivacious boys. One is in college and the other 2 are still at home navigating their way through adolescence. I am a native of AZ and enjoy playing soccer, skiing, hiking, traveling, camping, yoga/meditation, and anything outdoors.
I hope learning about my experience in this field helps you to feel confident in knowing that you have chosen an experienced and mindful guide and that you are investing wisely in your journey toward creating the life you want.