My approach to mental health counseling is relational. I believe relationships in which a person can experience emotional attunement and experience authentic connection are vital to being a happy human. I draw upon cognitive behavioral, attachment-based, interpersonal, dialectical and EMDR/AIP (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing/adaptive information processing) approaches. Carl Jung is my personal favorite along with "The Tools" by Phil Stutz and Barry Michels.

 

I have worked in human services for over 20 years. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa and National Certified Counselor. Because I believe in advocacy and social justice, I try to vary my association memberships. Currently, I am a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) and the American Counseling Association (ACA).

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I tend to have a lot of hobbies so I can often be found tackling some sort of project. I also love learning so you'll usually find me with an article (or three) or a book to read when I have a minute. 

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My personal interests include reading, music, crocheting, sewing poorly, bike riding, gardening in hopes a few plants will survive, and spending time with my family and friends. My corgi is our office therapy dog. Earl is in training as a therapy dog and often accompanies me to work. Everyone at the office enjoys his loving and calming nature. (He can join telehealth too). As you can see, he makes himself at home. He's not big on being called a "dog" but he's a good listener. People tell me they enjoy his kind greeting as they come in the door.