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I hold a Bachelor’s Degree from
the University of Denver in Psychology
and Sociology and a Master’s Degree
from Portland State University in Counselor
Education with a specialization in Rehabilitation
Counseling. This specialization focused
much of my education on learning about
disabilities, both physical and mental
as well as addictions. Both of these
degrees are nationally accredited and
the combination of both focusing on
psychology and sociology gave me the
ability and opportunity to look at my
clients presenting concerns from a variety
of different perspectives placing an
emphasis on growth and positive change.
Life in general can be challenging whether
an individual is going though difficult
change or adjustment, experiencing difficulty
in his or her relationship or if an
individual is coping with anxiety, depression
or the sudden onset of a medical condition
or disability. During these times of
difficulty, counseling or psychotherapy
can be used as a tool to conquer what
life throws at us.
Counseling can provide an individual
with clarity, it can provide an opportunity
to bring unknown strengths to awareness,
and it can give an individual a different
perspective on a situation while, all
in all, promoting positive growth and
change in a comfortable, compassionate,
confidential and private setting.
My personal approach to counseling incorporates
theoretical techniques from evidenced-based
practices such as Cognitive-Behavioral
Therapy, Person-Center therapy, Interpersonal,
and contemporary Psychodynamic theory
in conjunction with mindfulness techniques.
According to the majority of studies
regarding the success of therapy, the
number one factor is the therapeutic
relationship that is built between the
therapist and client. It is important
to me as the therapist, to create an
individualized treatment plan that fits
the needs of each client that I work
with. You, as the client, will find
my counseling style to be proactive;
I often ask clarifying questions, connect
re-occurring themes and discuss suggestions
to promote positive change. It is important
for me as the counselor to get to know
you as the client and build a trusting,
comfortable working relationship and
get the most out of the time we spend
together.
My particular skills and interests in
counseling include working with individuals,
couples and groups in the following
areas:
- Disability Issues (psychological
and social)
- Anxiety
- Abandonment
- Depression (and other mood-related
conditions)
- Relational concerns (partner, family,
friend…)
- Disassociation
- Depersonalization
- Past History of Abuse (physical,
emotional, verbal, sexual)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
(PTSD)
- Life Changes
- Adjustment
- Sexual Addiction
- Sexuality/Sexual Orientation
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I believe that counseling offers a unique way
to grow, change, and explore parts of ones self.
To do this it is essential that a client feel
comfortable and safe in their counseling environment.
During my experience as a counselor I have found
that building strong relationships with my clients
is the most important way to help them feel
secure in their exploration process. Every individual
is authentic in their own way so it is important
as a counselor to use an approach that best
fits each individual’s needs and concerns.
My foundations of counseling are based on a
combination of theories including Reality Therapy,
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy,
and Interpersonal theory. When appropriate I
also use aspects of Psychoanalytic techniques
and mindfulness techniques.
My areas of specialization include the following:
- Relational Distress
- Life Changes/Transitions
- Chronic Illness & Disabilities
- Substance-Related Addictions
- Depression (Including Mood Disorders)
- Anxiety/Panic Disorders
- PTSD/Trauma
- Abuse
- Abandonment
- Grief & Loss
- Concerns with Adolescents
- Sexuality/Gender Orientation
I believe counseling is a collaborative effort
between the client and the counselor. The client
will experience a confidential setting allowing
them to accept challenges and take risks if
they choose. Clients will also experience empathy
and understanding in a trusting relationship.
M.S. in Counselor Education, Specialization
in Rehabilitation and Drug & Alcohol Counseling
M.S Certificate in Addictions Counseling (in
process)
Portland State University, Portland, OR, 2007
B.S. in Human Communication
Mediation and Conflict Management Certification,
May. 2003
Southern Oregon University, Ashland, OR, 2003
Areas of focus I addressed during the course
of my schooling at PSU included disabilities
and chronic illness as well as addictions counseling.
My undergraduate study focused on important
aspects of relationships including, negotiation
and conflict, interpersonal and nonverbal communications,
and mediation. I also hold a certification in
mediation and conflict management. |
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