I enjoy working with children ages 0-10 primarily and their parents as they navigate the challenges of parenting in the modern world. I have specialized training in diagnostic assessments for children ages 0-5, and perinatal mental health. I have earned my board approved supervision credential with the MN Board of Behavioral Health, and I enjoy providing supervision to clinical trainees as they work towards independent licensure as an LPCC. I’ve been taking classes towards becoming a registered play therapist (RPT) with the national Association for Play Therapy with some classes specifically focused on Adlerian play therapy. My goal is to eventually become a supervisor for play therapy so that I can help others achieve the RPT credential too.
Clinical Approach:
With children, I utilize a variety of non-directive and directive play therapy techniques, coping skills, and attachment theory. I am currently getting trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy for children who have been through trauma and have some initial training in Trauma-Focused CBT. It’s important to me to build the relationship with the child first through play and fun so that they feel safe in therapy and look forward to coming to therapy sessions.
With adults, I start by building rapport through active listening and validation. It’s also important to me that I complete a thorough assessment of what is going on in your life currently, what you’ve been through, and how you would like to see your life change. I pull from a variety of theories of counseling in treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-informed techniques, Adlerian theory, among others. I’ve also taken specialized training (47 Continuing Education Credits) in the treatment of complex posttraumatic stress disorder and dissociation towards earning the credential of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II, and I incorporate aspects of this training and Internal Family Systems when working with adults and children who experience dissociation.
Hobbies:
I enjoy scrapbooking, arts and crafts, and spending time with my family.
