Therapists in Gig Harbor, WA

Seeking counseling can be one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. It is also one of the bravest decisions. Day to day life is stressful, and at times, life tosses us a curveball. My goal is to help you identify your strengths, and help you navigate through the stresses and transitions that many people struggle with. You are not alone, and I am so glad that you are here. Some of my areas of focus are on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics as well as parent coaching.

I'm very experienced working with minority communities including working with women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ clients. Minority groups, and couples, particularly those at the intersections of gender, race, and sexual orientation, are often underrepresented in fields of work such as business, tech, and entrepreneurship. I believe therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental space that empowers individuals to be able to push their own limits and views of themselves, in all aspects of their personal and professional lives. Being able to embrace oneself and each other is one of the strongest things a person can learn to do.

My goal in counseling is to help my patients go from where they are to where they want to be. I provide a nurturing, emotionally safe environment for people experiencing life transitions, grief and loss. My patients learn to: 1) understand and better manage anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationships, sleep problems, and disturbing thoughts; 2) identify innate gifts, talents, strengths; 3) develop and work toward achievable goals.

Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!

My therapeutic approaches/techniques are tailored specifically to you, providing you with a higher level of comfort and facilitating change.rnCHILDREN: Use of play therapy techniques to provide a positive experience and means to openly express themselves.rnrnTEENS: An open, accepting, and safe environment for self expression so that together we may address their individual challenges in a positive manner.rnCOUPLES: A neutral and structured atmosphere where each individual may feel comfortable to express and address their concerns. Together we work to introduce new elements into the relationship to resolve conflict and strengthen the relationship bond.

You know there is more of who you truly are, under the surface, waiting to be unlocked. You sense that you have old beliefs or conditioning or fears, picked up from other people or culture, that hold you back from feeling truly open and free and comfortable with yourself. Yet, maybe you can't quite figure out how to break free from these feelings...from these limitations that you didn't ask for. There is nothing wrong with you. Things have just happened to you in life. If you're reading this, then perhaps you're at a place where you're ready to step more fully into your self...a place where there is more compassion and freedom.

I have no ideal client. The best part of this job is getting to know such a wide range of people with so many types of issues. I have 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in community as well as out-patient and in-patient settings . Geographically, I've worked with families and trained workers in Seattle, New York, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. I've done in-home work in the Bronx, and helped develop policy all over the country. I am now in private practice and address issues that can affect us all, such as, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and most mental health issues.

Not Currently Accepting NEW Clients: I specialize in working with teens, those who self-harm, parents of teens with concerning moods and behaviors, and military families. My methods create substantial change in a short period of time. If you are struggling with high intense crisis emotions, or harmful behaviors, we would be a good fit. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). -Telehealth Sessions Only. I am a Military Veteran & Military Spouse.