My Background

I earned my bachelor's degree in Economics at the University of Washington in 1991, after which I studied clinical social work at Columbia University, New York. Prior to earning my Master's in Social Work at the University of Washington in 2013, I spent years either working or volunteering with underserved communities both abroad and at home. Throughout my experience, I have been inspired by others who have persevered through adversity, both internal and environmental. What factors contribute to resilience--and more so, to contentment and emotional well-being? 

My interest grew in bio-psychosocial influences on mental health. Integrated Health/Mental Health became my concentration in graduate school. During this period, my internship included splitting my time between working with veterans on the Seattle VA Medical Center’s inpatient Spinal Cord Injury Unit, as well as with veterans in the hospital’s Mental Health Care outpatient clinic. Post-graduate work included providing psychotherapy at Compass Health, a community mental health clinic. I had also worked as a medical clinical social worker on inpatient units at Seattle Children’s Hospital and Virginia Mason Medical Center, providing emotional and logistical support to patients (and their loved ones) dealing with physical illness, injury and significant life transitions.

This background has provided a strong foundation to my practice. I have been fortunate throughout the years to be in spaces where one can witness remarkable fortitude in others. Being a part of a client’s journey — through struggle and growth — is an honored experience.