How Therapy Works
Have you ever had a conversation with somebody and thought the person seemed like they were in denial? Have you ever then wondered if—out of concern for the person—you should say something? Have you then worried that if you do say something, it could go badly, so you choose to hold your tongue? I have, too! In ordinary relationships, we can’t always say the things we think.
Therapy is different! In the safe and private setting of my office, I’ll tell you what I think you need to hear, even if it’s hard for you to hear. Mental barriers, or “defenses” stand in the way of growth and I believe my primary job is to help you dismantle the defenses that especially stand in your way so that the lively and playful parts can come forward.
My goal as your therapist is to help you become more open and resilient so that you can pursue a better life and have better relationships with others. I have extensive professional training and experience that allow me to sense subtle emotions and outmoded patterns in you that you probably haven’t noticed. My own psychotherapy and internships were psychoanalytic and have given me a substantial understanding of the human psyche, but I tailor my therapeutic interventions toward the areas where you show the most readiness to grow. Once you discover how good it feels to be in a better place, handling your life and relationships more constructively, you’ll become increasingly invested in continued growth. Therapy gets less scary and more exciting as it goes along!
While psychotherapy can be uncomfortable and painful at times, it should also be playful, fun and lively. The good times in therapy are just as vital as the painful ones. Research in neuropsychology back me up in this belief. I take “fun” seriously!
Please don’t mistake me for somebody who has it all together, because that's not who I am! The mythology of “perfect mental health” gets in the way of simple growth. Perfect is the enemy of good. What I do have to offer is over 30 years of experience as an effective agent of change.
The “chemistry” between us is at the heart of a good therapeutic fit because therapy is a person-to-person enterprise! If, after reading this website, you feel some connection to what I’ve written, chances are good that you and I will have a productive therapeutic relationship.
My goal as your therapist
To help you become more open and resilient so that you can pursue a better life and have better relationships with others.
What I Offer
Over 30 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families
About Me
I’ve practiced psychotherapy for over 30 years, the last 20 in Edmonds, WA. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1987 from UCLA and went on to complete a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology in 1991 at California State University, Northridge. I received my license to practice psychotherapy in California in 1993 and my license to practice psychotherapy in Washington in 1996.
My first encounter with psychotherapy was as a client, rather than a therapist. I say this for a reason: as your therapist, my personal journey towards wellness matters more than any other “qualification” might seem to imply. I first sought professional help during my coming-of-age years; my turbulent childhood hadn’t prepared me for adulthood! Yet I was reluctant to seek professional help; I felt like a failure for not being able to work things out on my own. Finally, desperation broke the dam and I did it. Though I didn’t see it at the time, this was a very brave thing to do. I found the right professional at the right time in my life and it made a world of difference! I received emotional support, insight, clarity, and other resources that became my own and have allowed me to live a very vibrant and full life. That is what I would like to provide for you.
My husband and I raised our two daughters in Seattle after moving here from California in 1996. I’ve been active in the Edmonds community, giving presentations on such topics as Mindfulness Meditation for Stress Reduction, Coping with Diabetes and Stress (both offered at Edmonds Family Medicine Clinic) and Careers in Counseling (at Edmonds Community College). Additionally, I’ve led weekly seminars on Family Systems Theory for psychiatric in-patients at Stevens Hospital (now “Swedish Hospital, Edmonds”) and have taught courses to mental health professionals on psychoanalytic theory and practice, on such topics as “Shame” and “Joy” and their importance in neuropsychological development. I’ve also developed a passion for Neuropsychology and Attachment Psychology over the years.
In addition to Psychology, I’m especially passionate about music and songwriting. I also love cooking, reading, yoga, fitness, and ideas.
Professional Affiliations
Northwest Alliance for Psychoanalytic Study, Clinical Member
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Member
Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Member