I have partnered with children, adolescents, adults and their families in various roles throughout my career.  My core beliefs are that everybody and every family has beautiful strengths and resiliency and that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow.  It has been such a privilege throughout my career to see kids and teens learn, adults heal, parents feel more empowered, and families become more connected because of the work we do together.  Through that team effort, my clients, their families, and I have found their pathway to healing, enhanced and built positive family dynamics, and allowed them all to find regulation of emotions.

The first 15 years of my career was as a school social worker where I worked with and advocated for students in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade.  This gives me inside knowledge about school systems, special education processes, and an ability to partner with schools and other agencies to create a holistic system of support for that child.

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, childhood difficulties, and family transitions.  My favorite way to engage with children and families is through the use of play.  I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Augsburg University, a Play Therapy Certificate from Bethel University, have Level I Training in EMDR, and I am a lifelong learner with plans to continue my education even further. I am currently working toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and am under the supervision of Marit Appeldoorn.

When I am not at work, I love reading, cooking, yoga, gardening, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with my family. I am also a huge fan of Taylor Swift!