Education:
- M.S. in Counselor of Education, University of Wisconsin Whitewater
- B.A. in Psychology, University of Wisconsin Whitewater
- Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate, University of Wisconsin Whitewater
Professional Associations:
- American Counseling Association
- Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals
- Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP)-Mental Health Tri-Chair for Waukesha County
I am extremely passionate about helping clients manage and improve their mental health! My goal is to explore beneficial interventions to help manage their mental health symptoms that may be interfering with their day-to-day lives. And further, to reflect and identify positive changes they would like to achieve in their lives with a non-judgemental, and supportive approach.
My vast field experience has primarily been in higher levels of care; including inpatient care, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient care in a hospital setting for adults 18+. This patient experience has provided me with the essential qualities to guide clients with a high acuity of mental health symptoms.
I utilize a combination of techniques including Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing – all with a Trauma-Informed & Strengths-Based Approach. Substance use is most often co-occurring with mental health, and has been a significant focus of my training. I believe supporting families, while navigating the resources available and understanding how they can best support their loved one struggling with mental health symptoms, is equivalently important.
Providing therapy involves empowering individuals to take control of their lives, finding a level of self acceptance, and challenging individuals to “get out” of their comfort zone.
My Inspiration: I’ve been married for 15+ years and have four wonderful children, and oh yeah, lots of animals. In my down time, I love spending time with my family and focusing on self-care. My kids are all my reasons for being so passionate about helping others.
Psychotherapy visits can occur in the office or virtually. However, I strongly prefer that our first visit occurs in the office – it’s helpful and enjoyable to meet in person!