Unbeknownst to me at the time, I was in training. Life-lessons instilled in me by these mutated reptiles would foster a dynamic appreciation for the manner in which a family system is fortified by each member’s uniqueness.

In my experience, this holds true in all facets of life including one’s family, one’s community of faith, one’s peer group, and even one’s work colleagues. An individual’s unique strengths should be cultivated and exercised regularly in order to successfully overcome life’s Shredders. I enjoy partnering with children and families to explore ways to awaken and implement their unique gifts.

I utilize an eclectic strengths-based approach in working with youth ages 2 – 17 and their families. I see value in helping individuals and families recognize and nourish their unique skills which may have gone dormant due to difficult circumstances. I aim to ever-evolve my already expansive toolbox of therapeutic interventions which includes elements of play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, family systems therapy, parenting skills, and motivational interviewing. I am well-versed in working with children and families with complex trauma/PTSD, self-esteem issues, ADHD, motivational challenges, behavioral issues, anxiety and depression, anger management, boundary problems, school difficulties, and conflict resolution. In the professional setting I’m recognized as warm, welcoming, authentic, respectful, creative, knowledgeable, and witty.

My family consists of best friend and bride of 22 years, our 20-year-old son, and our 18-year-old daughter. We enjoy spending our time with church activities, lifting weights, playing sports, hiking, watching movies, playing board and video games, playing with our pets, gardening, woodworking, and volunteering for community service projects.

I have a Master of Social Work degree from Colorado State University, and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Colorado. I have worked with traumatized youth and families for 19 years in the residential and clinical setting.