Experience

 Photo is circa 2014  

I have been a nurse for over 30 years. I have always enjoyed one on one conversations with my patients. I became a Psychiatric NP to allow me to help people with the needs that are important to their lives. I have strong experience in treating mood disorders, anxiety and PTSD, although I work with patients with almost every psychiatric need. I have seen medications work effectively to help people with Depression or Bipolar Illness, so that they really feel well most of the time. I have found certain therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desenitization and Reprocessing) work quickly and thoroughly to free people of problems from past hurts. 

I am board certified with the ANCC, EMDR Certified  and I am licensed to prescribe psychiatric medications in Oregon.  

 I have a client-centered approach to therapy and I believe that clients are the best experts on themselves. Each client has strengths that will help them work through the challenges in their lives. I see myself as a facilitator rather than a director and prefer to empower my client while I collaboratively direct the therapy as we go along. I encourage and assist the development of self-confidence and self-support, as well as a healthy interdependence with the important people in my client’s lives. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy , Relational Therapy, Art Therapy   and a variety of other therapy styles to assist my clients. I also provide pet therapy with one or two of my  French Bulldog lap dogs Olive, Vinnie van Gogh, and/or Carmel during  sessions.  The dogs are around if a client would like to cuddle or pet them during therapy and they help to create a more relaxed office atmosphere.