About

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I hold an Associate degree in Psychology from San Antonio College, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice, a minor in Sociology, and a Master’s in Business Administration from The University of Texas, and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University.  I have worked full-time in the fields of Healthcare, Family Law, and Criminal/Juvenile Justice Systems.  I am a certified trauma professional, fully trained in chemical dependency counseling, and have over 20 years of experience in volunteering my time and services as a special education advocate. 

 

I believe wholeheartedly the therapeutic alliance is key to making long-lasting change! I also believe therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. Our work is an affirmative process - your identities, and your experiences, matter to me. I am passionate about working with people of all ages and backgrounds and believe that though we may be experts on our own lives, having another empathetic person to talk things through with can help an individual reach their goals and aspirations. 

 

Even the strongest person can be challenged by difficult experiences in their past or present life. Over time, we can become so complacent and comfortable with the discomfort that it becomes our new normal, forming our views and behaviors without knowing it's even happening. Life has a way of forcing us to confront things we believe we already overcame. Remember, therapy is not about “getting over” events and issues; it’s about understanding your triggers and learning how to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to move forward and build a fulfilling life.

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As a therapist, I work alongside my clients to explore areas in their lives where they feel stuck in the mud. With a non-judgmental approach, I help guide my clients to discover their inner strength so that they can remove the obstacles hindering them from living a vibrant life. I strongly believe in the power of the collaborative process between therapist and client.  It is important to remember that a good therapist will extend their hand to a person sitting in the mud, but a GREAT therapist will always sit in the mud with you and get out together.

 

I specialize in working with individuals, couples, children, adolescents, and families in areas of CPTSD/trauma, divorce, high-conflict relationships, parental alienation, reintegration, social anxiety, adjustment, and attachment issues. I also work with high-conflict families on difficult parenting and family cases to help coach them through all stages of divorce.  I have extensive experience with advocating for those with learning disabilities and providing guidance to families on navigating through an IEP and 504 processes.

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I also strive to empower people to understand themselves and their situations better while at the same time providing resources for coping skills, developing healthy relationships, self-regulation, and instilling a positive self-image.  I creatively use interventions and experiential moments when they are needed or helpful. I intentionally include mindfulness activities in most (if not all) sessions, whether that be through play, art interventions, modeling, or regulation strategies offered when needed. 

  

“I want my clients to feel more connected to themselves throughout this process, moving towards self-awareness and self-acceptance. I believe that being understood is fundamental to change, and being able to help clients not only feel better and find relief but also understand their motivations and gain insight is one of my great joys.”