About

Welcome to my safe space! I’m so glad you’ve reached out for help, and I know how hard it can be to find the right person, so let me tell you a little bit about myself so you can decide if we’re a good fit.

I began working professionally as an addiction counsellor in 2009, but before that I was many things. I worked for a short time as an Emergency Medical Technician and paramedic, restaurant manager and even journeyman apprentice machinist (believing I’d continue studying CNC), but like many, life happened, and careers changed. I was also a faculty member in natural horsemanship and hoof care which provided me with over two decades of experience educating others, while simultaneously furnishing the opportunity to meet people from many different culture and religions.

Throughout my life challenges, I’ve learned temperance, patience, and above all that I have no right to change another human being, for this is something that must come from within. One should never compare themselves to another for in doing so we harbor only jealousy, contempt, or resentments to name but a few.

It’s important to have goals, to be inspired by good role models, and sometimes it’s hard to decide so we need an “open rein” or …a little help from the outside.

Currently I am a licensed (LPC) master's level, nationally certified counsellor, and current student in The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program at California Southern University. I earned my master's degree in counselling with an emphasis in trauma, LGBT and Addiction related issues from California University of Pennsylvania in 2016. I became a nationally certified counsellor by passing a national exam in meeting educational requirements. Additionally, I have a post master’s certificate in Student Services and Higher Education. Distantly I have completed certification for Trauma Focused CBT. I also hold certification in Functional Behavior Analysis, DBT and several other modalities. I have over a decade of experience with addiction and comorbidities, and past experiences as a mobile therapist and behavior specialist in the communities and classrooms.

My approach to treatment depends upon you and where you are, because that is where I will meet you. There is no protocol for trust and rapport, yet this is the most important, above all things, when beginning the change/healing process. I believe in being a role model who consistently demonstrates drive, ambition, hard work, and above all, an intense desire to help others. I am always very honest and genuine so exploring boundaries and determining what best meets your current needs will be my top priority.

It is my calling as a therapist to help my clients become more self-aware and fully embrace all aspects of themselves so they can experience more valued living. I typically incorporate Acceptance Commitment Therapy into my holistic approach including physical, psychological, social, gender identity and/or spiritual needs. I Invite all of my clients to educate me on their personal values and belief systems so they can be incorporated into their personal wellness programs and treatment goals. If needed, I will assist you in identifying other resources to meet your needs that may be beyond the scope of my practice and competency.

I offer weekly, bi weekly and bi monthly sessions and will message several times a week as needed with an option to send an urgent message for a same day response. I offer evening appointments and every other Saturday to help accommodate working professionals.

I make every effort to provide each client skills they can use right away and encourage everyone to find their own natural state of balance in therapy as well as in life. So if you're feeling a little "off balance" let me help you learn new skills and take an open rein to a new perspective in life.