Life can be challenging and sometimes we all need a little extra support. I believe one of the most important factors in any therapeutic encounter is the relationship between the client and the psychologist. In order for progress to be made, this is a vital step, so let’s start by meeting.
A little about me…This is my second career, as life has many twists and turns!
I earned my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, where my population focus was older adults. I then earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (Health Track) at the University of Kansas, where I treated and assessed individuals and families across the lifespan during hospital and rehabilitation stays for various medical needs as well as those in end of life care. My love for psychology and science intersect around research in older adults and the impacts of physical activity on the brain and life of older adults. I completed my pre-doctoral internship at VA Central Iowa, where I had the privilege to serve Veterans and those in the military to help treat the impact on mental health and functioning directly sustained from military service. I am excited to continue my life path, and assist others to total wellness through our work together. I have worked in many settings, including: a college counseling center, community centers, child and adult palliative care work, inpatient rehabilitation, memory care facilities, psycho-oncology, and in VA settings advocating for whole health and quality of life of all individuals across the lifespan.
I am passionate about working with people from all walks of life and abilities to help meet their particular goals.
My Theoretical Orientation is Psychodynamic, meaning it is our relationships that give our lives meaning. The relationship with ourselves first and then relationships with others. I also use acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Interpersonal, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) approaches to address the different needs of those I work with. I can deliver cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and prolonged exposure (PE) for trauma when appropriate.
