I am from the Mankato area and have lived here most of my life. I worked for years in the hospitality industry and have a degree in hospitality and restaurant management. During the pandemic, I watched as people I knew struggled with mental health and substance use. Unfortunately, the Mankato Area has suffered a string of overdose deaths in recent years. Witnessing those hardships became the catalyst for my career change. I decided it was the right time to do something more fulfilling with my life. I began by finishing bachelor’s degrees in both Criminal Justice and Psychology. From there, I decided to get a master’s degree in Clinical and Addiction Rehabilitation Counseling from St. Cloud State University.

I believe that mental health is something everyone should be conscious of and care for daily. How we think, feel, and act can affect our physical health and relationships with those around us. Therefore, taking care of our mental health in all stages of life is essential for balance and happiness. In addition, learning how to cope with stress effectively is vital.

I also strongly believe in inclusivity and equity in healthcare treatment and access. I strive to be a safe space for anyone who needs one. I will provide a client-centered approach to finding solutions for the individual. Solving problems and overcoming unhealthy coping strategies can be empowering and helps build self-esteem. A therapeutic relationship should include trust, openness, collaboration, and respect. I also believe in working through the uncomfortable to reach a state of acceptance.

I enjoy spending time with my three very active children when I am not working. I love to travel, especially to Disney World. I enjoy reading and watching a little reality TV on occasion. In addition, I am passionate about social issues and hope to be a voice against the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.

Background

Education:

Bachelors: BS in Psychology, Bemidji State University, July 2022
Bachelors: BS in Criminal Justice: Victimology Emphasis, Bemidji State University, July 2022
Masters: MS in Rehabilitation Counseling: Addiction and Clinical, St. Cloud State University, Expected June 2024

Specialized Services:

-Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EDMR) trained.

Population(s):

-Teens
-Adults

Specific Therapy Services:

• Co-occurring substance abuse disorders and mental health disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Adjustment Disorders/Significant life transitions
• Trauma (PTSD) and Stress-Related Disorders
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder  (OCD)

Treatment Modalities:

• Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EDMR)
• Adlerian Psychotherapy (AP)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
• Trauma Informed Approach (TIA)

Professional Affiliations: 

• American Counseling Association (ACA)
• National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC)
• Minnesota Addiction Professionals (MNAP)
• The National Rehabilitation Association (NRA)