My Story

After completing doctoral training, I planned to start a private practice. However, life had a different plan for me! I worked with the Federal Bureau of Prisons and served for over 24 years. I was responsible for a Mental Health Program, Drug Abuse Program, Suicide Prevention Program, Practicum Program, Forensic Program, and Employee Assistance Program while caring for individuals who experienced serious mental illness.

In 2018, I retired as Chief of Psychology Services at FDC SeaTac. Shortly after, I ventured into academia and clinical research, where I shared my passion for teaching others about the gift of therapy, understanding mental illness, and continued supervising students and clinicians.

I was and still am passionate about serving a wide variety of people worldwide who have truly experienced some of their darkest moments. I find this work challenging yet rewarding. I never stop believing in each person's hope, value, and worth. Throughout my journey, I remain firm that we are meant to be in relation, and we find healing and meaning through relationships.

I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, gardening, cooking, watching professional sports, and playing a few sports too! I am always up for an adventure. I look forward to connecting with you and helping you live healthier lives!

Clinical, Academic, and Research Experience

I was hooked after completing my first month of internship with the Federal Bureau of Prisons! I loved the challenge and the opportunity to serve those who most wanted to forget. Each person's story humbled me, and their fight to survive and thrive despite their challenges motivated me to work even harder! Serving as a law enforcement officer and first responder was an honor. I gained a profound understanding of mental illnesses and how a genuine connection with another person can facilitate changes. I learned even more about humanity and how we live each moment of our precious life. 

My career progressed from Doctoral Intern to Staff Psychologist, and I finished my tenure as a Chief Psychologist and a Senior Psychologist Mentor/Trainer. During this time, I also navigated other treatment milieus working with individuals, couples, and families in crisis. I supervised students and psychologists throughout my journey, teaching them how to do this vital work. I often told them, "You are learning to care for the heart and soul."

My retirement was short-lived, and I spent four years as an Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Training of an APA-approved Psy.D. Program. During this time, I joined a national research study funded by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration. I worked for the University of Washington as one of ten Clinical Supervisors overseeing a team of Clinical Interviewers studying the prevalence of mental health disorders in adults conducting landmark research. After completing the project, I was recruited by Research Triangle International to join a follow-up study on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. I am excited to continue this critical work, contribute to the scientific body of knowledge, and lead a clinical team.

I am a Certified First Responder Counselor and understand first-hand the challenges of being a First Responder. I am here to support my clients in managing the day-to-day stress of the job and the cumulative impact of trauma they may experience. 

I have specialized training in Discernment Counseling. If you or your spouse are considering divorce but are not completely sure that’s the best path, you are in a tough spot; Discernment Counseling is designed for you. It’s a chance to slowdown, take a breath, and look at your options for your marriage.

I worked with individuals who experienced overwhelming distress and mental illnesses throughout my career. I helped others navigate the turbulent waters of their journey by instilling hope and being present in the relationship. This approach worked for my clients and colleagues in prison, academia, and my research position. We are meant for relationships; each person wants to be seen, heard, and valued.