Why I Do What I Do

In this video, I discuss my personal journey of healing and recovery from an eating disorder, which ignited my passion for psychology. My experiences drive my commitment to helping individuals reclaim their sense of self and navigate life's challenges.

If you'd like to delve deeper into my story and the insights I've gained along the way, check out my article here.

Welcome to my practice!

At Whitecap Counseling, I offer more than just academic credentials and technical training. While formal education and certifications matter, what truly sets my approach apart is a commitment to real change—not just validation or surface-level solutions.

Many therapists today are trained to follow predetermined models or indoctrinate clients into a narrow worldview. These approaches can leave you feeling stuck, pressured, or disconnected from your authentic self. Instead of simply labeling or prescribing solutions based on what's popular or convenient, I focus on you as an individual, understanding your unique circumstances, and empowering you to reclaim control over your life.

Understanding Your Struggles

In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disconnected. You might be dealing with shame, anxiety, self-criticism, or strained relationships that make you feel stuck. These struggles can impact your sense of self-worth. Here, I take a different approach: I focus on understanding what you're really going through, without judgment.

A Safe Place for Clarity and Growth

I’m here to listen deeply, challenge what’s not working, and guide you toward meaningful growth, using a broad range of therapeutic tools and strategies that align with your values, not any external agenda. Therapy here isn’t about following trends—it’s about meeting you where you are. Together, we’ll focus on what matters to you, using a personalized, results-driven approach to work through whatever challenges you’re facing. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, or just navigating life’s complexities, I’ll be here to guide you with authenticity and empowerment.

Professional Accreditation

Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State (LH 61337830)
Licensed Clinical Professional in Montana (BBH-LCPC-LIC 57104)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Idaho (3371745)

Qualifications & Training

Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Washington University
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Clinical Trauma Professional
Understanding and Utilizing Dialectic Behavioral Therapy
Columbia Suicide Risk Assessment
Motivational Interviewing
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Plus
Mental Health Professional
Advanced Strategies Motivational Interviewing
Grace Under Fire: De Escalating Potentially Aggressive Individuals Education
Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence Advocacy for Rookies
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
47 Hour Training of Core Sexual Assault and Crime Victims Service Center Training

Summary of Experience

Throughout my career, I’ve gained a wide range of experience across various mental health settings, including public mental health agencies, private practice, and for-profit companies. In public mental health, I provided crisis intervention, therapy, and case management to underserved populations. In private practice, I honed my ability to offer personalized therapy and assessments, always prioritizing client confidentiality and autonomy. My work with for-profit companies has given me valuable insights into specialized mental health services, with a focus on employee wellness and stress management. These experiences uniquely equip me to deliver tailored therapeutic interventions that prioritize individual needs and promote holistic well-being.

Philosophy of Therapy

I believe that healing is a deeply personal journey, one that is uniquely yours. My role is to support you through this process, guiding you as you build self-care habits and create routines that bring stability into your life.

Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, beautifully illustrates how our struggles and imperfections can become powerful parts of our story. Rather than hiding the cracks, this practice celebrates them, reminding us that our experiences—both the painful and the healing—help shape who we are. Just as a Kintsugi piece tells a story of resilience, I encourage you to view your own challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation.

In our work together, I’ll provide a safe and open environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. By maintaining clear boundaries and ethical practices, I’ll help create space for you to reflect, challenge negative beliefs, and focus on your personal growth. Your engagement and commitment to the process are crucial, and together, we’ll celebrate your journey—embracing both the challenges and the triumphs—as we work to create a richer, more authentic narrative of who you are.

IS MY APPROACH RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for therapy that’s practical and helps you understand how to navigate your world more effectively, my approach might be a good match. I focus on how our beliefs and values are shaped by our experiences, emotions, and the messages we've absorbed from others. When our thoughts or behaviors no longer align with what truly matters to us, it creates inner tension—and that’s often where change begins.

Therapy with me is about building adaptability. Healing isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about learning to live with greater clarity, resilience, and purpose, even in challenging circumstances. Together, we work on understanding your patterns, making thoughtful adjustments, and strengthening your ability to respond—not just react—to what life throws your way.

I offer practical support through meaningful conversations, education, and goal-setting. We monitor progress collaboratively, using your feedback, self-report, and outcome-based tools to stay focused on what’s working. If this approach feels aligned with what you’re looking for, I’m here to walk that path with you.

YES, IF YOU: