I admire those seeking counseling as being courageous and intelligent capable of learning and unlearning as appropriate. I respect individuals regardless of the challenges presented. Everyone benefits by having a counselor added to their cabinet of advisors.
I employ cognitive-behavioral methods using a collaborative model whereby coping strategies to reduce unwanted thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are taught. I hold that we all have an unhealthy side, which supports negative automatic thoughts and misperceptions. These faulty thoughts are often connected to anxiety, depression, and other challenges.
I founded Alliance Counseling in 1995. I also worked in K-12 education for 20 years as a school principal, special education director, counselor, and teacher. I hold credentials in Arizona as a Licensed Professional Counselor and in Washington State as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor each supported by my masters in counseling from Washington State University in 1995. I am certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors and as a Child Abuse Prevention Specialist. I earned a Doctorate in Education from Nova Southeastern University in 2003 and hold a Bachelor's of Arts from Westfield State University graduating in 1992. I also completed graduate school educator certification programs at Tufts University and Framingham State University in 2000.