My path to becoming a therapist began long before I earned my degrees or licenses. Growing up in a family affected by unresolved trauma, I experienced firsthand how family systems can unconsciously assign roles that shape a person's identity. As the family scapegoat, what family systems theory often refers to as the Identified Patient, I learned early how unspoken pain, shame, and dysfunction can become projected onto one individual. Those experiences gave me a deep understanding of resilience, healing, and the importance of reclaiming one's own voice.

Rather than allowing those early experiences to define my future, they inspired me to create a different path rooted in compassion, self-awareness, and helping others discover their own strength.

At six years old, following a near-death experience during a tonsillectomy, I had a profound spiritual encounter that continues to influence my perspective on life and healing. While my approach as a therapist is grounded in clinical practice and evidence-based care, I also honor the spiritual dimension that many people find meaningful in their own healing journeys. I believe emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being are deeply interconnected, and I respect each client's individual beliefs and values.

Growing up during a time when cultural and gender biases were widely accepted also shaped my worldview. I found inspiration and support from diverse communities and developed a deep appreciation for inclusion, dignity, and social justice. Those experiences ultimately led me into the field of social work, where I could advocate for individuals and families navigating life's most difficult challenges.

After relocating to Washington State, I dedicated my career to crisis intervention, family therapy, and helping individuals, couples, and families navigate complex emotional and relational issues. Over the years, I have continued to expand my knowledge through both traditional clinical training and complementary healing practices. My studies have included equine-assisted psychotherapy, meditation, nutrition, intuition development, Reiki, shamanic traditions, astrology, and tarot. These experiences have broadened my understanding of healing while reinforcing my commitment to meeting each client where they are, without judgment.

Today, my work is guided by a systems perspective. Whether I'm working with an individual, a couple, or an entire family, I look beyond symptoms alone to understand how relationships, experiences, beliefs, and life circumstances interact. Together, we identify patterns, build on strengths, and create practical strategies that support lasting growth and meaningful change.