Working With Me

How I See Our Relationship:

There are wonderful therapists here in Reno that I am happy to call my colleagues. I’m sure that many of them would serve you well. So much of therapy is about the combination of training, experience and the non tangible element of “personal fit.” I hope that in providing a bit about me you are able to consider whether or not you think we might be a good fit.

What sets me apart is my willingness to meet you where you’re at in the best way that I can. I’m real, I’m honest, but I’m sensitive to the fact that life can be difficult and I haven’t walked in your shoes. Even if some of my circumstances have overlapped, I don’t know what it is like to be you and I honor that. I honor your expertise. Rather than telling you what to do and how to do it, I want to work with you to figure out the best way for you and your family to move forward, whatever your circumstances. Collaboratively, we work toward change through healing conversations.

My Experience:

I have been privileged to work in numerous healthcare settings with clients facing very different challenges. I think this gives me a unique vantage point when approaching new clients.

First, I’ve learned that different people and challenges require diverse strategies for achieving success in therapy. Rather than simply applying my own favorite model, I work collaboratively with you as a partner and consultant through the process of change.

Second, I’m well-rounded. There aren’t many challenges or populations I have not worked with. If something is out of my scope of practice or competence I’ll refer you on to receive the best care possible. But, in general, I’m well-versed and competent in dealing with a variety of problems related to well-being, mental health and relationships.

Third, I’ve been trained and tutored by some of the best and brightest, nationally recognized scholars and clinicians. My master’s and PhD were both obtained from COAMFTE accredited programs in marriage and family therapy- the highest level of accreditation for training programs in my field. I’ve also been specifically trained in medical family therapy- a systemic approach to treating clients dealing with chronic illness, and the healthcare providers who treat them, and in multi-dimensional family therapy- a holistic approach to treating adolescents facing substance abuse and behavioral issues. This specific, advanced training provides me with additional skills to treat those struggling with health-related issues such as chronic illness and teen acting out.