I practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received a Master’s in Social Work (2001) from the University of Missouri – Columbia. I began my career as a therapist working with adult substance abusers at a nonprofit treatment center in Columbia, Missouri. While working there, I provided individual, group and family therapy. I also created unique educational curriculum addressing the special circumstances related to simultaneously recovering from chemical dependency and managing other mental health diagnoses.

In 2005, I gained valuable professional experience working at the Missouri Department of Mental Health - Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse. As a Program Specialist, my clinical skills helped to provide utilization review to the clinical teams of the treatment centers throughout the state. This position also involved supporting Program Directors and treatment providers from programs across the state of Missouri with clinical decisions regarding chemical dependency and behavioral health services. My understanding of alternative treatment modalities such as faith based, medication assisted, and 12 step philosophies were significantly expanded.

Since 2006, I have carried a caseload in private practice. I continue to see adults who have concerns related to a wide range of life adjustments, relationship issues, marriage/partnership struggles, chemical dependency, mood related problems, depression, anxiety, and other life stressors. I actively seek continuing education opportunities in the areas of couples counseling, addiction, recovery coaching, mindfulness, and psychopharmacology.

In 2017, I completed all three levels of The Gottman Method for couple’s counseling. I continue to train on the many topics that contribute to healthy relationships in all forms. Most recently, I completed EMDR training in 2020 to assist with complicated trauma symptom resolution.

The overall goal of my work is to help clients experience mental and physical wellness beyond the relief of symptoms. I truly enjoy clinical work that produces a deeper sense of agency over one’s actions and outcomes. Together we maximize the quality of life and ability to thrive in all elements and seasons of life.