Self-expression is not just for “creatives." There is a direct correlation between authentic, healthy self-expression and well-being. Sometimes, though, our sense of self gets lost. Sometimes it's difficult to express feelings or needs we have not yet identified or don’t understand. My passion involves coming alongside those searching for answers and desiring a more joyful and authentic experience of self.
Before I became a counselor, I was an art teacher. I spent 30 years working with children, teens and adults. I learned that art often provides individuals with a means of communication that goes beyond words. This prompted me to ask questions such as, “Why aren’t there words?” and “Why can’t we just talk ourselves into feeling better when we’re down?" It may be that our cognitive resources are overwhelmed by anxiety or depression. Or maybe we’re stuck in old patterns and can’t see other options. Sometimes trauma or heartache overshadow everything else. Whatever the reason, there is hope!
Seeing a counselor can be intimidating. Be assured that I am safe and trustworthy. I am a Christian. I’m married with three grown sons, one daughter-in-law and four grandchildren. I am trained in the use of many evidenced-based techniques, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Core Pattern Therapy, EMDR and Art Therapy. I have experience counseling children, teens and adults, men, women and couples. Additionally, I’m an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and enjoy working with individuals on the spectrum. I believe that each individual is unique, and while I’ve observed that no two people come to counseling with exactly the same questions, the answers often have some common threads. We want to be heard and understood. We want our stories to be meaningful. We want to learn to love people better. And we want to feel wholly loved ourselves. I look forward to working collaboratively with you on your path to authenticity, wholeness and joy.