Formal Education and Training:

I hold a Master’s  in Social Work from Portland State University, here in Portland, OR.  In my coursework I studied:  Human Growth and Development, Assessment and Treatment Planning, Professional Orientation and Ethics, Building and Maintaining Therapeutic Relationships, Social Justice, Practice Theory (including Attachment, Trauma, Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Developmental, and Cognitive-Behavioral), Research Methods, Group Dynamics, and a major emphasis in Child Development.  As a licensed social worker with the state of Oregon (license number L4914), every two years I am required to take part in at least 40 hours of continuing education related to the mental health field and submit my license for renewal.  I regularly consult with other licensed professionals and seek supervisory support.

Philosophy and Approach:

My goal in working with clients is to meet them where they are and build a safe, honest relationship with clear expectations in which they can find the space to work on things that are getting in the way of life working how they want it to.  I approach this work from a developmental perspective, which means I am continually working to recognize and build from strengths and needs as they currently present for individuals and systems.  My work with families is focused on finding a balance that's healthy for every member of the system. I believe in using evidence-based techniques for increasing supportive parenting, improving emotional and behavioral issues for children, and building relationships within families.  I value working collaboratively with clients, and following their lead to accomplish their goals.  I believe that there are many potential interventions in all settings, and strive for creativity in the work that I do, using child-directed play, observation and direct support, Collaborative Problem Solving, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems Theory, among other reliable interventions and lenses.  Healthy relationships are often characterized by good communication and validation, and I seek to foster that in my relationships with clients by welcoming open communication and offering clear messages.  As a licensed therapist, I also abide by the code of ethics of the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers (OBLSW). 

Limits to Confidentiality:

The information that you share with me about your life will usually be kept private.  I may share information in supervisory and consultation sessions, but I will take precautions to keep your identity private.  According to the Oregon Revised Statute 419B.010, there are some instances related to safety in which I am legally required to contact other agencies for assistance.  Such instances include:

·         Knowledge that a child or elder is a victim of physical or sexual abuse or neglect

·         Knowledge that a child or elder is under threat of harm (e.g., exposed to violence in the home, financial abuse)

A report is not a justified fact, but it is considered an obligatory request for further exploration into the safety of the child or elder.  Once a report is made, I may be instructed to limit any discussions of the disclosure until decisions are made about the disposition of the report.  Other instances in which I am obligated to contact outside authorities include:

·         Knowledge that one intends to harm self or others

·         Court ordered subpoena

As a client of an Oregon Licensee, you have the following rights:

·         To give informed consent to your treatment.

·         To be treated with dignity and respect, and to receive services free of exploitation or harassment.

·         To receive treatment that is nondiscriminatory and sensitive to differences such as race, religion, age, national origin, gender, marital status, and sexual orientation.

·         To refuse treatment. If you have been ordered to participate in treatment by a court or other authority, I will inform the court or other entity of your refusal.

·         To have access to your (or your child’s) clinical records.

·         To participate in the development of your (or your child’s) treatment plan.

·         To confirm my credentials and to receive a copy of the Code of Ethics of my licensing board.

·         To express concerns about any action or decision you feel violates your rights or affects your treatment.

·         To be informed about office policies and fees for services.

·         For more information on the special circumstances of minors between the ages of 14 and 18 receiving mental health services,

         please visit: http://www.oregon.gov/blsw/pdfs/chapter_109_rights_of_minors.pdf

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In case of emergency:

During non office hours please call your county crisis line: Multnomah County Crisis Line- (503) 988-4888, Clackamas County- 503-655-8585, Washington COunty- (503)291-9111 or call 911 and request mental health support.

You may contact the Board of Licensed Social Workers at:

3218 Pringle Road SE  Suite 240, Salem, OR 97302-6310              Telephone:  503-378-5735

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