I am a psychotherapist who strives to meet clients on equal ground and enhance their ability to control their emotional environment regardless of the external circumstances that may trigger distress. Currently, I work with a predominantly geriatric, physically disabled, and/or cognitively impaired population that require a supportive setting. I became interested in this population while working in a hospital, helping individuals make the transition to a supportive setting after a medical occurrence. There is a very prominent grieving process that takes place while making this transition and often marks a new life phase in which adaptations are necessary for emotional survival. Often, new mental health concerns arise, or chronic mental health concerns become exaggerated. When dependence on other increases an increase in a sense of vulnerability, anxiety and fear is common. One of my goals with this population is to assist in adapting and restoring control, purpose, and meaning in life. I utilize many modalities to match the needs of my clients but often spirituality, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a strengths based approach is beneficial.
My professional background includes performing diagnostic assessments, cognitive behavioral therapy, and DBT skills for personality disorders and/or relational distress. I have worked with a variety of disorders including those involving cognitive loss, severe trauma, and psychosis which can make coping more complex. In these situations, grounding skills, sensory based stress reduction, and reality testing is a primary intervention to mitigate distress. At times I serve to adapt an individual’s environment to decrease distress and behavioral planning in neurocognitive disorders. I am also available as a consultant in care facilities. I enjoy my work and am passionate about helping others and families.
Telehealth Services
To expand and improve our care options for clients, ACP offers Telehealth (phone or video) appointments. Telehealth uses phone or video conferencing to connect you with highly qualified and experienced providers in real-time from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office. Before your telehealth appointment, you will receive details for how you will connect with your provider. If you will be connecting via phone, the provider will plan to call you at your scheduled appointment time. Please be ready to take the call and also check that your phone allows calls from blocked numbers (accessible within your phone settings). If you will be connecting via video conference, your provider will email you an invite to join the appointment. Please call our office to learn more about ACP’s telehealth services and to schedule an appointment.
Areas of Specialty
- Geriatrics
- Chemical health
- Psychological services for long term care facilities
- Mood disorders
- Trauma
- End of life and grief
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Licensures / Titles
- Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- Mental Health Professional
Education
- Master of Social Work (MSW) – St. Catherine University/University of St. Thomas
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Minor in Women’s Studies, (BA) – St. Cloud University
Locations: