about me

Credentials & Ethos

I am a member of American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT),  the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), Washington Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (WAMFT) and International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT).

I attended Seattle Pacific University to receive my Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.

It is my belief that most of us are not taught to have healthy dialogue about sex, intimacy & sexuality even though this is a very important part of being human. I went through rigorous training to become a certified sex therapist so I could support conversations about this very important topic affecting all of us. For many clients, it is the first time they have explored this part of themselves or their relationship.

I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

I use EFT in therapy with couples as well as individuals (more about EFT). I also co-facilitate Hold Me Tight® couples retreats several times a year. These transformative weekends are educationally-based workshops based on EFT principles (Find out more at Northwest Couples retreats). Finally, I am a member of the Washington EFT Therapists and organizing committee chairholder, creating a strong network of EFT therapists in the Puget Sound region.

I am 1/3 Washintonian, 1/3 Texan and 1/3 New Yorker

Having lived and worked in these regions, I couldn't help but adopt their distinct customs, quirks and beliefs. I am proud to be eco-responsible, a lover of two-steppin' and a very brisk walker. I also think that living in such diverse areas of the country has provided me with a heightened sensitivity to regional and cultural issues.

I love laughter

For me, laughter is truly therapeutic. Whether I am laughing at my own expense or with others, I always seem to feel a bit lighter and brighter after a giggle. Just between you and me, I consider a hearty laugh my exercise for the day! Experts agree that laughter has many health benefits including improved circulation, reduced anxiety and a stronger immune system.

The great outdoors calls my name

Give me a pair of boots, a trail buddy and the promise of an adventure and I'm there! I feel so fortunate to live in the lush northwest where we don't have to travel far to enjoy nature, hiking and skiing.

I am grateful to have found a profession that allows me to sit with people from all walks of life and be curious about how life unfolds and challenges each of us. If you are seeking help for your partnership or an issue in your own life, let's get started today.

INDIVIDUALS

Romantic Relationships

Relationships with Family of Origin

Relationship with Self

Transitions & Life Events

Depression & Anxiety

COUPLES

Committed Couples

Consensual Non-Monogamy

Transitions & Life Stages

Grief

Betrayal

INTIMACY & SEX

Erectile Dysfunction
Painful Sex (Dyspareunia)
Desire Discrepancy
Sexuality & Pleasure
Aging & Sexuality
Sexual Trauma
LGBTQIA+ Affirming

Co-Creator of Northwest Couples

Northwest Couples is a collaboration between my colleague Marcia Erickson Bates and I.  While we are independent relationship practitioners, we share a passion for Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and supporting couples who are striving to have a close, fulfilling relationship.


Why did I co-create Northwest Couples?

I am passionate about helping couples and individuals experience connection within their relationships. I believe there is value in engaging with couples in other formats than my private practice. Northwest Couples gives me the opportunity to teach and connect with couples in brief, yet powerful ways. It is rewarding to see couples team up, comfort each other and connect during our retreats — adapting these new-found lessons and strategies into their daily lives.

Northwest Couples is educationally based. Our two-day Hold Me Tight® retreats are derived from the research of Dr. Susan Johnson and her empirically proven therapy model, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). These workshops are for couples who seek to reinvent their relationship through healthy dialogue. You can find out more and register for one of our transformative weekends at Northwest Couples


QUESTIONS? LET’S CHAT.

Have questions or want to chat? Send me a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I am able. I am excited to hear from you!