My approach is humanistic, client-centered, and framed by compassion. My focus is on fostering an open, supportive therapeutic environment that welcomes curiosity, and encourages clients to try on new patterns of thinking and behavior. Making even gentle changes takes effort and practice; no one wants to feel discouraged or stuck in a painful place, and I like to honor that wish to decrease distress and find greater contentment. In my practice, I begin with a comprehensive assessment, collaborate on treatment goals, and then work steadily alongside my clients to build both intra- and interpersonal skills. I have significant clinical experience in trauma-focused treatment, informed by brain-based science and developmental theory.

When I’m not working, I’m usually on a mountain bike somewhere in the woods. I also love to spend time with my friends and family, like to travel and see new places, and make time to exercise outside. Cycling seems to combine all these elements, and so I feel fortunate to have found a sport that lets me do all the things I like at once.

Flannery O’ Connor’s Collected Short Stories. Many years ago I was a Literature student and like short stories most of all. I was always drawn to Flannery O’ Connor’s stories for the peculiar ways her characters experienced a flash of insight or understanding, but only after suddenly having the workings of their world upended so completely.

The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. This is a group that has been working hard for over 15 years to rebuild, restore, and develop multi-use trails across several National Forests in the "Lost" Sierra Nevada mountains. Volunteering with this group provides endless rewards – environmental, communal, and personal. They are a good group of folks, doing hard work, and I especially appreciate their youth programs that encourage younger populations to experience and cultivate the outdoors for the generations to come.

I tend to recharge with physical activity. I like to be moving, whether on the bike, running, hiking, or swimming. But I also feel renewed talking and spending time with family and friends; their presence can help to redirect me, and is a consistent reminder how fortunate I am to have those connections and support.