“Once you start approaching your body with curiosity rather than with fear, everything shifts.” – Bessel van der Kolk”
What brought you to the area?
I have lived in Central Minnesota all my life! I was born in St. Cloud but moved to the Monticello area a few years ago to be closer to friends, family, and work opportunities. I have always loved Central MN for its mix of rural beauty, easygoing pace, and colorful art and culture.
Do you have any special areas of interest in medicine?
My interest and expertise lie in mental health counseling. Because of my background working in schools, I have knowledge and interest in adolescent and LGBTQ+ mental healthcare but am experienced and comfortable with all manner of backgrounds and concerns.
What would you like your patients to know about your approach to patient care?
I take a very collaborative, person-centered approach to patient care stemming from an Adlerian school of psychology. This means that you are the expert on your life, so I exercise curiosity and seek understanding to help guide your care. Through this lens, I work together with people to discover the ways that thoughts, emotions, and actions influence each other, then come up with an achievable plan to improve symptoms.
What can patients expect when they meet/see you in the exam room?
When you join me in my office, expect a friendly face and a good sense of humor. I always have informative resources on hand, several comfortable seating options, and a cozy, low energy atmosphere.
What are the most common questions you receive from patients?
“How can therapy help me?” Therapy can help process difficult events or relationships as well as teach valuable skills for communication, emotional and behavioral regulation, perspective, and mindfulness. The benefits are dependent on what someone seeks from counseling and how actively they are involved in the process.
“How long and how often do people do therapy?” That depends! I see some people weekly, some every other, and some just as needed. Some people attend just a few sessions and feel comfortable with their progress; some maintain regular sessions for years as part of their support system. This is an aspect of care that is discussed and adjusted as someone progresses through treatment.
Professional Experience
Education
Certifications
Personal Interests
Reading, writing, being outside (biking, canoeing, camping), art (drawing, painting, pottery), and my dog
