My
psychotherapy practice is enhanced by my background in theatre,
education, and community activism. Over the years, I have come to value
helping people discover their voice and sharing that voice in a
confident manner. In my work as a counselor, I believe that each
individual is truly the expert on his or her own life, and thus, my work
is not to tell someone how to parent, who to be, or how to change, but
rather I offer a safe and confidential space to collaboratively find
solutions that are unique to each person.
What Can You Expect?
As
your counselor, there will be times when I will challenge you to think
about things in new ways as well as highlight the things that you are
already doing that are supporting your own goals. I work from a
client-centered, strengths-based approach. In other words, I believe
strongly in the power of each person, and I work to help each client
meet the goals he or she has set for him or herself. At times, I might
suggest creative exercises that we will do in session; however, clients
have the ultimate authority in deciding how therapy should proceed and
progress.
A Saying
There is a saying that helps me guide my actions in the therapeutic
relationship. I've heard it in a few forms and attributed to different
sources.
I
hope to be the person who understands the song in your heart and can
sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.
A Metaphor
The
metaphor works like this. If we were to liken the therapeutic
relationship to driving in a car, the following would apply: you are the
driver of your life. I am a passenger in your car; I sit attentively in
the backseat. You have invited me into your car for various reasons, and
I am curious to know how you think my presence will be helpful. I am not
a backseat driver; rather, I marvel at how expertly and judiciously you
are navigating our journey. I draw my attention to seeing the world as
you do through the windshield. I gently, occasionally, and unobtrusively
as possible, share my perceptions of what I think you are seeing and
experiencing. I give suggestions when you ask for them. As we share this
journey, you find my presence supportive, and in time, you find that I
am increasingly unnecessary, and eventually, you drive without me.
Credentials
-
I hold a Masters of Arts in Counselor Psychology and Counselor
Education (Couples and Family track) from University of Colorado at
Denver and Health Sciences Center.
-
I received a Certificate in Human Relations Enrichment I, II, and
III from La Leche League International.
-
I hold a Bachelors of Arts in Theatre and Communication from the
University of Colorado at Denver.
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I am a mother of two children, ages 12 and 14.
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