Therapists in McMinnville, OR

I have many years of experience working with complex family dynamics in agency work. I became a counselor in order to provide services to individuals and families who needed help with their lives. I count it a privilege to work with clients and meet people in their hour of need and sometimes in their hour of desperation. One of my greatest strengths is helping you discover solutions amidst complicated and emotional challenges that are plaguing your life. I try to meet clients right where they are, and encourage them to see a better future for their lives and families.

Are you wanting to have a loving relationship that lasts and just can’t figure out how to maintain the relationship? Did you come from a dysfunctional home in which your role models for relationships were bad or lacking? Are you tired of blowing up at your partner or children and not knowing where that anger came from? Are you tired of apologizing for your behavior and wondering how to stop doing the same thing over and over again?

Are you overwhelmed, on edge, isolated, or feeling stuck? You are not alone. It takes a lot of courage to choose healing and growth and I am here to support you! Whether you are facing challenges like anxiety, depression, transitions in your life or struggling within a relationship I would consider it a privilege to work with you, exactly as you are. I am committed to creating a judgment-free environment and I welcome and celebrate all identities.

I recognize the importance of emotions and feelings that you have been experiencing, and it is my goal for us to discuss your struggles in a safe place, and explore possible strategies during our time together. My specialty is disability and psychological adjustment, work and career-related issues, cultural adjustment, and life transitions.

Have you ever felt like a pinball in a pinball machine that was launched into the world at high speed and is ricocheting from one thing to another with no ability to stop or get out of the ‘game’? This image describes of the effects of trauma in my life. Trauma can rob us of the ability to feel safe with others and to enjoy intimacy (feeling safe to share one’s deepest thoughts and feelings) in our relationships. Life becomes chaotic & out of control, it is hard to set and keep realistic goals even though one is trying hard to change. Shame grows & it is hard to hope.

Mental health is nothing to be ashamed of. I am here to let you know that you do not have to go through this process alone. I am here to provide support whether you are experiencing relationship problems, depression, anxiety, loss, life transitions or even if you are just looking into working on personal goals. I am here for you! I work with an open mind and an open heart. My role as a therapist is to work collaboratively with clients to help them overcome obstacles and recognize their strengths. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for ALL clients to feel heard and accepted. ALL of your identities are welcomed here.

Seeking support is a vulnerable and often times difficult step to take. I seek to make this process as easy as possible. If you are struggling, reaching out for help is a great first step to improving yourself. I commonly treat those suffering from anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Oregon. I love and take the role of psychologist seriously as I partner alongside others to provide expertise on the journey towards healing and improved quality of life. I strive to connect with each person I work with to provide individualized treatment.

I am committed to helping individuals, families, businesses, communities move forward. I bring 40+ years of clinical experience which includes work with combat, childhood and complex PTSD and trauma including Holocaust survivors. I have been recognized by The Southern Poverty Law Center for contributions to promote justice. I work with cancer patients and their families as a member of the Association of Oncology Social Workers. Psychotherapy with trauma survivors has helped clients lead productive and happier lives despite strife and adversity.

My experience as an adoptive, foster and biological mom opened my eyes to mental health needs and I/DD. I lived in Liberia for nearly three years, which is where I met and married my husband. We have a mixed race family and have had to work to blend the best parts of each culture into our own family culture. For the past 11 years I have worked for county mental health serving initially as a skills trainer in homes, schools and the community. For 5 years I was a wraparound care coordinator, which inspired me to pursue my master’s degree in social work. Since 2017 I have provided therapy in both clinic and school settings.

[NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME] Maybe, you're looking for help with your marriage, or help with a personal life issue, or you want to work through the pain of past hurts or the grief of a significant loss? Counseling provides the opportunity for healthy change, personal growth and healing. I work from an integrated and holistic cognitive-behavioral perspective. I focus on helping my clients change thoughts and actions, so they may better understand their problems and find healing from life's hurts, restore health to relationships, and develop helpful solutions to life's challenges.