“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.”
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me and the work I do. I'm a licensed mental health counselor who provides psychotherapy and counseling sessions to adults and couples in Iowa. My path to becoming a professional counselor started over 30 years ago, at LeBaron Hall on the campus of Iowa State University, where as an undergraduate student I took my first course in human development and family studies.
That initial spark of curiosity connected to learning about changes and challenges experienced across the lifespan turned into a dedication to helping others live more engaged, authentic and fulfilling lives. Applying the knowledge acquired at Iowa State with various non-profit organizations led me to further my education and training at Drake University, where I completed my graduate degree in mental health counseling. Learning is a process that never ends for a therapist, and I enjoy refining my practice though continuing education.
The therapy experience provides a setting where individuals and couples can explore their hopes, desires and fears and tap into new understanding to create meaningful change in their lives. I strive to provide an environment that is free of shaming, guilt or judgment. A space where my clients can explore and express themselves safely and fully. My approach is focused on providing empathy and understanding, identifying and magnifying existing strengths, and helping my clients generate and implement their own unique solutions to challenges they face in their lives, one small step at a time.