About My Practice
My Approach
My theoretical approach is called Theoretical Integrationism, which simply means that I base therapy on several different models that I believe to be the most accurate and helpful. Specifically, I hold to Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Psychodynamic approaches. Person-centered therapists, such as Carl Rogers, believe that each person is unique and should be treated with respect, acceptance, and honesty. As a person-centered therapist, I work to help people accept themselves as the unique, valuable persons they are. I see my role as collaborative, working alongside my clients to help them become more satisfied with their selves and with their lives.
Cognitive-behavioral therapists believe that our thoughts, feelings, and behavior are all interconnected. Changing one can change the other, leading to either less or more fulfilling outcomes. What we learn when we grow up, especially if we experienced trauma or abuse, can lead us to develop behaviors that are maladaptive to current circumstances. Though such behaviors were adaptive in the situations in which they developed, often such behaviors no longer serve us well. Cognitive-behavioral therapists seek to help their clients learn new, more effective behaviors, often in the form of coping and relaxation skills. In addition, we will seek to explore your automatic thoughts. Automatic thoughts are universal, occur without our intentionally thinking them, and are sometimes helpful and productive, sometimes unhelpful and unproductive. Exploring these automatic thoughts and finding more productive, healthy ways of thinking can also positively impact one’s feelings and behavior.
Psychodynamically, I find Attachment Theory particularly enlightening. I help clients explore the connections between their early relationships and their current relationships, including the therapeutic relationship. Insight into these connections can help one build healthier, more fulfilling relationships, as well as a deeper understanding and acceptance of self.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I abide by the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (American Psychological Association, 2002).
Formal Education and Training
I have a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary. I also have Master of Arts degrees in both Psychology and Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. I was licensed as a Psychologist in Oregon in 2005 and worked previously at Linn County Mental Health Services for almost 9 years. I then provided therapy to underresourced individuals at the Pastoral Counseling Center, where I eventually became Clinical Director. I am trained and experienced in individual and group therapy with adults and specialize in such treatment with persons who have experienced trauma and/or abuse or who have a co-occurring substance abuse disorder. I also provide clinical supervision to psychology interns or residents working toward licensure.
Continuing Education and Supervision Requirements
In order to maintain my license as a Psychologist in Oregon, I complete 50 continuing education credits every two years. Attending relevant classes, participating in supervision, and reading books and research articles ensures my continual awareness of new, pertinent information, research, and treatment approaches.