I have been providing counseling services for individuals, couples and families since 2005.  I have had the privilege of serving a diverse array of people from all walks of life, facing a wide range of issues as varied and complex as the people themselves.  My experience ranges from academic and executive performance coaching to acute psychosis, crisis intervention and trauma.  The environments I have worked in are almost equally varied, including college and academic settings, office-based private practice, outreach-based community counseling, and non-profit/NGO work in refugee settlements and disaster stricken communities. 

I graduated with an MA in Counseling Psychology from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon.   I am certified nationally in the U.S. as an NCC (Nationally Certified Counselor), and have been licensed in the state of Oregon as an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and CADC-I (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor).  The approach I use is eclectic in nature, incorporating a variety of styles, but I predominantly utilize a cognitive behavioral technique rooted in mindfulness with elements of motivational interviewing and solution-focused therapy.  Counseling can look quite different, depending on the issues that are brought forth, and I tailor my approach to the individual, or individuals, involved and the situation we are discussing.

I am from the United States, having spent most of the last 20 years in Portland, Oregon, but originally I am from South Carolina.  However, in the past 20 years I have also lived and worked in Chicago, Illinois, South Korea, Thailand, Sri Lanka and China.  I have also travelled extensively in Asia and Europe, all the time returning to Portland, Oregon in the United States as homebase. 

I am looking forward to working with you in whatever capacity you so desire.  If you want to make an important decision or manage an ongoing issue that is troubling, or assist a family member, or friend, please don't hesitate to call me.  I enjoy discussing the problems we all face, whether it be adjustment, emotional, or psychological in nature, and I am sure that nothing you tell me cannot be overcome or navigated.