My interest in mental health stems from an early age and personal life experience. Growing up in small town South Dakota meant folks did not talk about mental health mostly because they never knew how and didn’t have the language or space to do so. I thought that was a curious notion because I knew how beneficial speaking to emotional hurts could be. Most of the time, healing comes from being heard and acknowledged during some of the darkest moments in life. Providing this to friends and family as well as seeking this out in friends and family has always been a trait of mine. Unfortunately, life has no shortage of hurt, loss and difficulties that people experience. So began my interest in working in the mental health field!
I keep that simple notion at the core of conducting my own therapy; people want to be heard and acknowledged. I think therapy should be inherently supportive as well as a process in building trust in self. I firmly believe that people know themselves best and tapping into that natural “knowing” with some guidance is the best tool for growth and healing. I have been honored in working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. Previously, I worked at an agency providing support to adults with developmental disabilities and learning differences. I also have experience working with the criminal justice system with individuals who have charges brought against them usually related to substance use issues. Through all my working experience, one thing remained true- people want to heard and acknowledged.
Outside of practicing therapy, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. You can usually find me outside gawking at the moon or admiring nature. I enjoy reading, being outdoors, golfing, needlepoint and trying my best to keep plants alive. I’m working on perfecting my cookie recipes and being more involved in baking in general. You can usually find my faithful dog and menacing cat close by in whatever activity I am doing. I also enjoy a good laugh.