Finding the right counselor is sometimes a difficult process. One size does not fit all! Since this might be your first impression of me, here is a little bit about me and my counseling style.
I often work with individuals, children (about 10+), teens and adults, who have experienced difficult, scary, or traumatic events, and may have symptoms of PTSD, mood issues (such as anxiety and depression), irritation, disassociation, panic attacks, behavioral issues, relational difficulties or other issues functioning “normally.” I also work with people who struggle with these problems, who may not have experienced any one particular traumatic event, but have these same symptoms.
I use an eclectic style of therapy, meaning that I draw from several different theories or styles of therapies to best fit the individual’s, family’s or groups’ needs. I provide evidenced based practices, that have been researched and proven to work; such as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and CBT+ (cognitive behavioral therapy).
I often work with individuals to help them rediscover meaning and purpose for their lives. I can help individuals process the negative/ traumatic events that have occurred in their lives in order to put the past in the past. I believe that finding, creating and maintaining positive relationships is a key aspect to our lives. I believe that the physical, mental, cultural, emotional, sexual and spiritual aspects of our lives are unique, but must all be in some way stable; thus it is essential to address all areas of our lives in order to be the very best we can be.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a certified EMDR therapist (attachment focused) and an approved supervisor in Washington. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Arizona and Texas, and can provide telehealth services for clients who are living in these states, moving to, or going to college in these states.
I first began working in the mental health field in 1995, changed pathways/careers, and then returned to this type of work after my hiatus. I have had the privilege of working with many people, in a variety of settings: inpatient/ residential treatment, outpatient treatment (with children, adolescents, adults, and families), in school based services and through experiential group work. I have ample experience counseling with adolescents/ young adults, parents, adults, families and groups. I really enjoy working with different people and see many unique individuals for a variety of treatment issues. Traumatic experiences can happen to anyone, and it can feel overwhelming. I have specialized training in working with complex trauma, which is often different than single incident trauma. I feel it is important to continue to educate myself on the current and most recent evidence based practices, so that I may provide you with the best, most efficient and thorough treatment approaches used today.
The first initial appointment typically lasts an hour and a half for the rate of $325 (90791 billing code). The subsequent appointments vary, and often people begin with meeting weekly for sessions that are approximately 53 minutes (90837 billing code) for $195 per session. Together we will determine the length and frequency of therapy. I do not work directly with insurances, so please ask your insurance company about their rate for out of network providers/ self reimbursement. It is often very reasonable! You will be able to submit the superbill that I provide to your insurance for reimbursement, if you choose to use your insurance to recoup your costs.
Please call 253.265.4074 for a brief phone consultation, screening, to ask questions or make an appointment. I typically will return your initial inquiry call within the business week.
Let’s work together and ascend to greater meaning and purpose in your life.
Education/Training/Experience: MS in Mental Health Counseling: Capella University, Minnesota, MN BA in Psychology: Houghton College, Houghton, NY
Certified EMDR therapist Attachment Focused -Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (AF-EMDR)- (Dr. Laurel Parnell, Institute)
WA state Licensed Mental Health Counselor WA state Mental Health Professional and Child Mental Health Professional
AZ and TX licensed counselor (providing telehealth services only) (FL-registered telehealth provider) https://flhealthsource.gov/telehealth/, National Board Certified Counselor (NCE) Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy PLUS (CBT+)
Approved Clinical Supervisor for Washington State
Gig Harbor Office- (Mallard's Landing) - 6626 Wagner Way NW, Suite 200