I’m glad you’re here.
My own transformational experience in therapy led me to become a psychotherapist myself, and I absolutely love what I do.
There is a saying: You can only lead others where you are willing to go. Suffice it to say; I have been there. I was introduced to psychotherapy first as a client. At age 16, I was court-mandated to attend substance abuse counseling as I had begun emulating patterns of abuse and addiction present in my family for generations. Initially, I drug my feet to therapy. But after some time, I grew to love it.
After establishing a trusting relationship with my therapist, I could not wait until our next meeting. I loved the imminent self-discovery and much-needed love and attention I received during our weekly sessions. I felt nurtured, seen, understood, and intellectually challenged in a way I had never been before. I learned the necessary skills to observe myself and respond, rather than react, to my emotions and thoughts. And, as a result, my mental health and relationships improved.
Since those many years ago, in addition to psychotherapy, I have participated regularly in many different forms of self-discovery. I am a lifelong learner and continue to engage in training, research, and endeavors that allow for self-growth, both individually and professionally. I am also a partner and a parent and find that those two roles have been far and wide my greatest teachers.
Qualifications
Education
Ph.D. East-West Psychology
California Institute of Integral Studies
San Francisco, CA
M.A. Integral Counseling Psychology
California Institute of Integral Studies
San Francisco, CA
B.A. Fine Art
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
Clinical Experience 10+ years
Psychotherapist
Private Practice in CA, OR, and AK
Community Mental Health
Golden Gate Integral Counseling Center, San Francisco, CA
Restorative Justice Facilitator
Insight Prison Project, San Quentin, CA
Training & Certifications
Developmental Model Intensive Training – Ellyn Bader, PhD & Lori Weisman, LMHC
PACT Couple Therapy Level 1 – Dr. Stan Tatkin
Gottman Couples Therapy 1 & 2 – John & Julie Gottman
AEDP Relational Therapy – Jennifer Edlin, MFT
Indigenous Psychotherapy Practices – Eduardo Duran, PhD
VOEG Restorative Justice Facilitator – Insight Prison Project
Expanded Sates and Psychotherapy – Francoise Bourzat, MA
Wilderness Rites of Passage – Ishtar Kramer, MA
Psychosynthesis – Phillip Brooks, PhD
Gestalt Therapy – Lu Grey, MA
Teaching & Facilitation
T.A. Multicultural Awareness in Counseling
T.A./Facilitator of Vision Fast and Wilderness Rites of Passage
Healing Retreats in Amazon, Peru
Group Meditation Facilitator
Licenses
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Oregon #T1436
California #105959
Alaska #157605
LMFT-S – Board certified supervisor AK & CA