My passion to become a counselor came from my own recovery from feeling like my life was not working for me as well as it did for others. Prior to asking for help, my search for answers took me on a journey through broken relationships, depression, substance abuse, codependency, and always striving to be perfect or at least 'good enough.' In desperation, I came to the end of my attempts to figure things out on my own, I finally turned to counselors and mentors for help. This opened up my life to understanding and appreciate the unique person inside, finding peace, joy, and freedom to enjoy life fully. The relief and hopefulness I found were so profound that I determined to help others find their way. Like me, many seek answers within, but due to disappointment, confusion, fear, misguided advice, etc. we get stuck, however, counseling can help by uncovering the best version of ourselves which lies within.  

In addition to being dual licensed in substance abuse counseling and professional counseling; I have an Masters in Counseling, studied biblical counseling, and natural healing. Because trauma is often at the root of places that keep us stuck, I received training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing Reprocessing) and NARM (NeuroAffective Relational Model) working with individuals with issues stemming from developmental, relational, complex and shock trauma.  

I work with adolescents and adults of all ages who have issues related to relationships, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, mood disorders, social anxiety, and unresolved emotions. I also work with those suffering from addictive behaviors and associated painful emotions that addiction wants to avoid. When the painful issues are addressed in counseling the cravings for addictive substances or behaviors are lessened significantly. I also work with people in significant relationships with those struggling with addiction, to help cope with the pain that can accompany loving an addict. Increasing understanding and working to resolve the pain is possible.

Most importantly, this is your journey. Our work together is to find the answers that are tailored to your values and desires. My role is to help you increase in hope, identify your strengths and resources, assist you as you grow by recovering from your struggles, heal from pain, and move forward to achieve the life that you choose. 

Addiction, depression, fear, low self-esteem, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable behaviors and emotions that can be experienced at some point in life. Through counseling and treatment, you are able to foster hope, recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you want in your life. Together we can create goals that make sense for your life and help you find the freedom you desire. 

Many people become disillusioned, depressed or turn to addiction as a way to avoid pain associated with trauma. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. In our sessions together we can develop the most effective way to overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. I am EMDR Trained which is an effective method for resolving the painful effects of trauma, and NARM Trained which is a therapeutic approach to work through complex, attachment, developmental, complex trauma that gets in the way of managing your life they way you want.

Relationship counseling can be beneficial when pain and disappointment has replaced love and joy. This can occur in marriages, between parents and children, and in other significant relationships. Counseling can help find a path forward in the relationship by relearning to communicate and connect in respectful, loving, and supportive ways.