About
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. My experience originated as a preschool teacher helping mothers and fathers understand their children and their needs. As my children grew so did my experience as I worked with abused children and their parents to ameliorate the abuse and increase family relations. My experience as a military dependent (child & spouse) led me to becoming a member of the Oregon National Guard which expanded my experience and knowledge during deployment and as I continue to work with NG members and veterans.
By respecting each family member as an individual I have learned individuals are not textbooks, each person is unique and has their own past that plays a part in who they are today. A persons past may include past (childhood) or recent traumatic events. These events may include physical. sexual, or emotional abuse, or combat related issues leading to current self-worth issues, depression, anxiety, chronic sleep problems, self-destructive behaviors, and/or relationship problems.
Education & Licensure
- LCSW: Oregon State L6627
- MS: Social Work – Fayetteville State University, NC
- MS: Psychology Counseling – Capella University, MN with clinical focus
- BS: Psychology, major – Southwestern Adventist University, TX Religion, minor
I was awarded my LCSW after completion of my MSW obtained through the Military program supported by Fayetteville State University. I had the opportunity to gain intensive skills while working at the San Antonio VAMC in the Palliative Care unit. I gained further valuable experience at the Portland VAMC in the Outpatient Mental Health clinic post graduation as I worked toward licensure.
Professional Memberships:
- National Social Workers Association (NASW)
- EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
Additional Trainings:
- Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, certified
- Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, certified
- Dissociation
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
- PTSD, military, first responder, sexual, childhood
- Military Sexual Trauma
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)