About the Counselor – Background/Experience
I was curious about human nature as early as my teens. I read in search of and pondered about life’s meaning in my 20’s. Confusion and emotional pain were my catalysts. I sought spiritual teachers who guided me in developing and strengthening my inner life. I did not follow societies’ prescribed order; instead, I discovered my own path which continues to unfold before me as I continue listening and sensing what is true for me.
My personal adventures in the solitude and beauty of Nature have greatly contributed to my continuing growth – along with the ‘book learning’, developing Trust in ‘not knowing’ (what will happen), being open to new experiences, growing Intuition and listening to the wisdom of the body for guidance and direction. I had studied for 3.5 years with facilitators who teach body wisdom and I have been facilitating ’empathic body/spirit connection’ circles for many more years, now, with my own monthly circle.
I take the best that Western Psychology and Eastern Mindfulness of the present moment has to offer for new ways of approaching life and engaging confidently by listening to the body wisdom as well as the mind. My counseling approach is built on the foundation of my own inner work and utilization of mindfulness tools that I share with you; down-to-earth and interactive.
I work collaboratively with my clients in examining roots of belief in personal limitations — often ‘programmed’ from childhood experiences–and learning and discovering skills of disengaging with these thought traps. Seeing the Whole Person, I support your increased connection with your body and your intuition and helping those interested in discovering deeper meaning in their lives. I am also interested in your health and lifestyle habits in support of your wholeness. In the interest of building momentum in our work together, I offer my clients concrete methods for keeping their process “alive” in-between sessions.
Training and Licensing: I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from University of Oregon, and a Masters of Counseling degree in mental health from Seattle University, trained in both mental health and addictions counseling. I am progressive with continuing education. I am a member of both Seattle Counselors’ Association and a professional peer-consultation group. I also consult with a psychiatrist on issues of medication when clinically appropriate.
My post-graduate experience began in 1993 and includes a broad base of experience working with homeless women with mental health or domestic abuse issues; working with parents and teens with family and substance abuse. Supportive and accepting of sexual orientation – identity.
My independent practice has evolved its focus to from traditional talk psychotherapy to specifically addressing the root causes of our suffering – gaining deeper understanding – and skills – working together experientially for deeper seeing – rather than offering temporary bandaids that are unsustainable.