Who I Am

Pre made introductions are hard so let me ask a question. Are you living the story of your life you want to tell? This is the question nine years ago that drove me to make drastic changes in my life. I was living in addiction, struggling with my faith, dealing with issues in my family life, and also figuring out how to work with my spouse to best move forward.

It was as I was at my lowest that I reached out to a counselor and realized I was living someone else’s story. I didn’t want to be an addict, I didn’t want to be lonely, and I certainly didn’t want my marriage to fall apart. Through working with a counselor I was able to find ways to change my narrative.

The choice to become a counselor stemmed from many things but I will tell you about the three main things that pushed me in that direction. The first was realizing that I needed to be doing something to give back not only because my faith drives it, but also because giving back helps me better tell my story.

The second thing that drove me into the field was that I had some great and not so great experiences with counseling. Through gaining that lived experience I learned that it wasn’t so much about how much schooling a person had or the approaches they employed, but the relationship and desire to see others improve is what matters. Yes, I went to school and yes, I am able to use evidence based practices, but I am able to do so in a way that best aligns with your goals, worldview, and faith system.

Finally the need around me is what I see most. I was on the bus home from school during my college time and noticed a person having a full blown panic attack in the seat in front of me. I looked around to see who would help and everyone seemed content to ignore this person who was clearly struggling. I sat down next to her and used some basic breathing techniques I had learned that day in a counseling class. I met her some time later and she told me that I had changed her life that day by showing her someone cared.

If you are ready to begin counseling I want you to know that after the initial assessment I will approach your counseling experience with the dignity and respect you deserve. I counsel mostly from a narrative approach and will help you identify stories you enjoy and characters you align with to better understand the goals that drive you.

Lastly, for those who are interested in the qualifications I have I am a graduate of Spokane Falls Community College, Whitworth University, and Grand Canyon University. I currently hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am licensed through the Washington State Dept of Health as a Licensed Mental Health Counseling Associate.