Services
About My Clients
My areas of focus include: · stress, anxiety, and depression · dis/abilities and neurodivergence · relationship challenges · self-advocacy · human-animal connections, including service, assistance, support, and companion animals AND life transitions, in areas such as educational and professional junctures, parenting and caregiver stages, older adulthood chapters, grief, loss, and end-of-life issues for individuals and their loved ones
My Background and Approach
I seek to create greater awareness of socioenvironmental factors, behaviors, attitudes, thought processes, and motivations to improve well-being and emotional, biopsychosocial, and/or intellectual functioning. I strive to practice from a place of awareness, empathy, and understanding of each individual’s distinctive mental health journey within the context of their background, experiences, and identities. I have been a social worker for many years, and I uphold the values and ethics of this profession which was established well over a hundred years ago. My practice framework is informed by ecological systems, attachment, and empowerment theories. I have worked in a variety of settings including schools, community health, advocacy organizations, and animal-assisted services.
My Personal Beliefs and Interests
I believe that animals in a therapeutic context can provide a grounding presence while building opportunities to enhance self-awareness and understanding of one’s relationships. For those who are interested, my certified Facility Dog Sporty and other Good Talk dogs, cats, and guinea pigs can be integrated into therapy sessions. I work with people in various settings ~ office, virtual/telehealth, outdoors, and in the community. I welcome adults from all backgrounds and aim to increase access for those living in rural areas. I grew up in and now am part of my own blended family. I hold Master’s Degrees in Social Work and Public Health from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from TCU.