Social and Emotional Growth for Youth and Parents

Holistic approach for all

I love the work that I do! I am honored and humbled when I become a trusted person in someone's life. I am continually amazed and impressed by the talents and courage of my clients. I am happy to share some of my background with you to help you assess if my practice may be a good fit for you.

Cultivating capabilities

In my many years of practice, I’ve learned that people thrive when they are understood, recognized and encouraged to cultivate their capabilities. That's why I tailor the work we do together to individual needs, interests and strengths. I believe that personal skills, responses to emotions, and talents can change: new habits of mind and abilities take shape through purposeful engagement.

Commitment to collaboration and growth

It is a privilege to work with individuals as they do the exciting and courageous work to improve their lives and grow. I bring my best to each client, which includes evidence-based, active therapies, mindfulness and self-compassion. These practices all require clients' commitment to the use of session-acquired skills outside of our sessions. For parents committed to helping their children acquire new skills, I share proven strategies to dramatically change the family's emotional climate, transform relationships and strengthen bonds.

Family is my foundation

Some of the most meaningful experiences in understanding the joys and challenges of childhood, young adulthood, and parenting come from raising my own children. They taught me humility, patience, empathy, and the importance of humor and play. In my free time, I enjoy reading, gardening, yoga and walking in the neighborhood with our dog, Finn.

Education, training, and experience

University of Washington, Educational Psychology, Ph.D., 2017
University of Washington, School Psychology, M.Ed., 2005
University of Washington, Cognition and Human Development, M.Ed., 1994
Connecticut College, BA, 1987
Post-Doctoral Fellow, Seattle Psychology, Seattle, WA, 2017 – 2020
Educational Consultant and Counselor, The Capable Child, Seattle, WA, 2012 – 2021
Director of Services, 3DL Partnership University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 2014 – 2017
Counseling Curriculum Developer K-12Bellevue School District, Bellevue, WA, 2011 – 2014
School Psychologist/Counselor, Bellevue School District, Bellevue, WA, 2005 – 2011

My CV, including professional affiliation, publications and workshops is available upon request.