About Me

I am a private practitioner specializing in individual, couple and family therapy and currently maintain a private practice in Gig Harbor, WA. I work with a broad spectrum of clients. Among my areas of expertise are relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, dealing with traumatic issues from the past, adoption, faith issues, and focus on temperament (highly sensitive persons), among others.

I am an interactive, eclectic therapist. I draw on a range of therapeutic modalities and techniques in order to tailor my services toward the need(s) of each client. My therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and achieve their goals for counseling. When desired by the client, the framework for the counseling is biblically based. It is my hope that through counseling, my clients gain tools to equip them in dealing effectively and satisfactorily with their present and future life circumstances.

I have been in the counseling profession for over 35 years and have a wide range of professional and life experiences. I have had the privilege of working with the nationally and internationally recognized Homebuilders Program and provided training in the model. Additionally, I have worked with children/families in the foster care system and began private practice in 2001 as a Guardian ad Litem which I did for several years through the Pierce County Courts. I have had opportunity to live for a year in Russia and to travel extensively. I have been a Christian since 1979 and am actively involved in a local church. I have lived in the Tacoma area since 1984 and am married, with two step-children, a trans-racial adopted son and an internationally adopted son. My interests include spending time with my family and friends, outdoors activities, reading and gardening.

Education:  
Auburn University, BA
University of Texas/Austin, MSW

License, Certifications:  
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Washington State
Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW), National Association of Social Workers

Additional Training:
Lifespan Integration/Healing Timeline

Professional Activities and Memberships:
National Association of Social Workers
National Association of Christian Social Workers