My life experience is founded on the transformative power of nature and the outdoors have had on growth and change throughout my life and the integral part it has played in my dynamic therapeutic approach. I trace this back to my rural roots from where I was born and raised in a small town (White Salmon) in The Cascade Mountains of Washington State. I later earned my Bachelor of Arts from Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington and my Masters of Social Work in Oregon at Portland State University. I have spent the better part of the last ten years working in the wilderness therapy field, further developing my passion for serving others and influencing change.

I found my calling in 2007 as a wilderness therapy field guide. For three years I tirelessly dedicated myself to the work until I earned a role as the field supervisor. Wanting more clinical and educational experience, I enrolled into Portland State University’s School of Social Work.

During my graduate program I focused on youth struggling with mental health and addictions both as a case manager and an addictions counselor. I continued to explore the complex issues of youth and mental illness as a school social worker at an alternative high school in the Portland metro area, until I received my graduate degree.

After graduating in 2012, I quickly returned to wilderness therapy as a therapist for an emerging wilderness therapy program in Wisconsin. When the company opened a new field area in Bend, Oregon, I played an integral role in developing foundational elements of the new program as a Primary Therapist and most recently as Clinical Director.

I am a trained level II Brainspotting (BSP) specialist. My focus is on attachment therapy, family systems and trauma informed care. I specialize in the treatment and placement of adolescents and young adults experiencing acute and complex mental health and addiction struggles. I belong to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and am licensed in the state of Oregon as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

When I am not immersed in my work with clients and families, I enjoy and embrace the outdoor lifestyle of Bend, Oregon and can usually be found on top of a mountain, paddling down a river or traveling and exploring the great outdoors with my partner of 17 years.