MSW, CSWA

Play is the first language that we become fluent in and can be a means to form connection and trust in the therapeutic relationship. 

My approach to therapy is play oriented. Play is a critical component of human development and well-being throughout the lifespan. It is our first language that we become fluent in and has many benefits regardless of the life stage that you are at. For kids, my approach to play is more literal, utilizing the playroom and other core components of that model. The play room is a space where kids can explore at their own pace the areas of life they are struggling with. I often give children the autonomy to use whatever pieces of the play room they naturally gravitate towards. I enjoy using games to gain insight into a child’s inner thought processes and practice new coping strategies.

With teens and young adults, my approach utilizing play is more figurative, as I pull from play related themes such as exploration of identity and stress relief, creativity and problem-solving, and social connection. By adapting play to meet the developmental needs of each stage—literal play for kids and more figurative, thematic play for teens and young adults—you can effectively support growth, healing, and connection in ways that are relevant and meaningful for each individual. This flexibility allows for engaging clients in ways that are both therapeutic and supportive of their current life challenges and goals. 

I place a great deal of importance on the relationship I build with my clients and their families. You are an expert in your child’s life and can provide key insights in order for me to better understand your child. I feel that it’s important to collaborate and work through areas of growth as a team. Children are so resilient and their lives can be greatly impacted by having a space to express themselves and adults that support them.

Growing up, I came into contact with therapists that made me feel seen and gave me new tools to take on life’s challenges, both through play and talk as I got older. The positive experiences that I had with my therapists made me want to pursue an education in the mental health field. In college, my first social work adjacent job led me to talk with and educate middle and high schoolers on healthy relationships and consent. I discovered I had a passion for working with kids and was able to see first hand how resilient kids can be. Being a social worker has given me the ability to work with a variety of populations and gain insight and experience I can use to inform my practice today.

When I am not in the office, I love hanging out with my dog and two cats. I like to do almost anything that gets me active or out in nature, including hiking, indoor rock climbing, and surfing. I also enjoy having a creative outlet, which is currently painting.

I have seen success with young clients who present with symptoms of anxiety. I have also seen a lot of success with clients who are willing to try new things. I assist clients who are experiencing a wide range of presenting concerns, including: anxiety, depression, struggles in school, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma recovery.

AREAS OF FOCUS

Who I Work With: Children 3+, teens, and young adults

While I work with a wide range of people and presenting problems, some of my most common topics of focus include:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Struggles in school

• Grief and loss

• LGBTQIA+ issues

• Trauma recovery

Counseling Technique

I use play therapy to explore and process areas of a child’s life they are struggling in. This can include: using a sandtray, imaginative play, games, social stories, sensory play, art, and more. I use grounding work, exploration of sensory needs and coping strategies, and a variety of models when working with older teens and adults. I maintain a trauma informed and strengths based mindset with all of my clients- every client I work with gets my unconditional positive regard. I keep the sensory needs of my clients in mind so I can do my best to meet them. I have experience using Collaborative Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. I draw from multiple evidence-based practices to find what will work best for each individual client. 

Professional Background

I have experience working with children and teens who have experienced trauma and have struggled to form positive attachments to others. Much of my professional work has included working with children in low income households or have been involved with the child welfare system. I have also worked with adults who have been involved with the child welfare system, including those who are foster families and those who are working towards reunifying with their biological children. I have worked in nonprofit and school settings. I have extensive experience working with youth who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community or are exploring their sexual orientation and gender identity. I am comfortable working with clients from a variety of backgrounds and consider every client to be an expert of their own experiences. My passion is getting to work with clients who want to build their resiliency and accomplish their goals, whatever they may be.

Education Credentials

I am registered as a Clinical Social Work Associate in the state of Oregon. I received my Master's of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois in Chicago, and my Bachelor's of Social Work from the University of Iowa. I am under the supervision of Maleigha Myers, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Oregon.