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Are you struggling in an important relationship, or deeply concerned about a family member? Perhaps you are overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, anger, or other painful emotions and memories. You might long to live according to biblical principles, but often feel discouraged by falling short of your goals. Or, you might be motivated to challenge yourself to grow. Whatever your reason for considering counseling, finding the right person to come alongside you is an important decision. I consider myself a coach – encouraging, educating, and equipping people who are motivated to heal and grow.

I believe that an important part of coping with challenges is gaining an understanding of the family as an emotional system. We develop patterns of relating in our original family. Those patterns are carried forward into current relationships. Challenging periods, such as developmental milestones (marriage, having a child, mid-life, death of a family member, a new job, etc.), or other stressful events can intensify these patterns resulting in emotional and physical symptoms. The more intense the challenge, the more difficult it can be to gain perspective about those things that are contributing to our struggle.

In our work together, I hope to help you gain an understanding of your family patterns, to see how those patterns affect your current relationships, and to formulate and implement a strategy for change. I wholeheartedly believe this approach will enable you to experience greater personal well-being, as well as healing in important relationships.

Areas of specialization:
Coaching individuals who are motivated to improve
     important relationships
Helping couples strengthen their marriage
Working with parents to address chalenges and
     improve effectiveness
Relieving anxiety and depression
Coping with grief and loss - from death, divorce, or other
     major life changes
Release from the influence of traumatic and
     disturbing memories/experiences

Professional Experience
Center for Grief Care and Education - San Diego Hospice &
     The Instutute for Palliative Medicine - Bereavement Counselor
Community Bible Study - Teaching Director
UCSD Healthcare - Administrator

Education and Training
MA, MFT - Bethel Seminary San Diego - summa cum laude
MA, Public Health - Emphasis in Healthcare
     Administration - SDSU.
BA, Economics - UCSD - cum laude
Extensive training in Bowen Family Systems Theory
EMDR Level 1
Certified Prepare/Enrich Counselor
MFT Intern #60602 supervised by G. Keith Olson,
     Ph.D., MFT # 6022

Affiliations
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT)
Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS)
American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC)