I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Western Washington University in 2006, and a dual Master's in School and Community Counseling from Washington State University in 2010.

I have experience counseling youth in both school and community settings. I have worked as a wilderness therapist, career counselor, challenge course facilitator, and in an acute inpatient psychiatric hospital.

I have always been passionate about working with youth and fully believe in the healing nature of a wilderness experience. I find that there is something inexplicable and fulfilling about interacting with nature.

Backpacking is a passion of mine, and I began backpacking at the age of five. One of my earliest memories is of celebrating my 5th birthday on a backpacking trip with my family. I remember waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the sight of a few small balloons tied to the tent that my mother had packed in, just for my birthday.

While earning my undergraduate degree in Recreation, I learned the value of play and its role as an essential component of well-being. Through experiential activities, people learn, grow, and challenge themselves physically, mentally, socially and emotionally. I encourage youth and their families to connect with nature and bring their experiences back to the counseling office.

I bring my passion for the wilderness and adventure into my counseling practice. By helping youth connect with nature, I can help them connect with themselves. I combine traditional therapeutic techniques and counseling theories with adventure and animal-assisted therapy. Gryphon, my partner in counseling, is a 4-year-old Brittany Spaniel who is a registered therapy dog. He embodies unconditional love and acceptance, wrapped in a fur coat.