Meet our staff

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I was raised in Yakima, WA and later attended college at Brigham Young University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.  I then obtained both my Master’s degree and my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Ohio University.  I completed my residency program the year following at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana.  For the next 15 years, I worked as a faculty member at IUP (Pennsylvania), which had a top 5 nationally-ranked Psy.D. program in Clinical Psychology.  There I spent much of my time training doctoral students how to conduct therapy, finishing my time there as director of the doctoral program.  I was fortunate to also be able to remain clinically active through providing therapy for others during each of my years in Pennsylvania.  Ultimately, my wife and I decided that we wanted our five children to be closer to extended family and I left IUP to start a full-time practice in Washington.  

 While I am not from Yakima originally, I have loved living here and I could not imagine myself anywhere else. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Mississippi. Currently I am in the process of getting my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have extensive experience working in special education programs in schools and experience as a crisis counselor. I am excited to start my journey as a counselor and help you meet your goals. 

People and their life experiences are unique, as is their journey within mental health. Many people experience life stressors, including existential crises. In such cases, I serve as a guide providing support and helping clients explore their strengths. I believe there is power in exploring what our purpose and meaning in life is. I have experience working as a mental health therapist for Washington State Department of Corrections, a school district in Washington state, and at a local community clinic. Most of my background comes from working as a crisis counselor and as a designated crisis counselor.   

 Are you looking for someone with specialized training in working with both couples and individuals struggling in their relationships? In both my advanced schooling and under the supervision of Derek Hatfield, Ph.D., I am trained to work with couples experiencing several types of distress. Communication difficulties, a lack of emotional connection, and healing damaged relationships are problems that many couples find themselves struggling with.  I use established therapeutic skills to help couples heal from the troubles they are now experiencing. I also work with individuals seeking counseling services, especially those who are struggling with important relationships. I provide a supportive therapeutic approach that respects all persons in a relationship.  When you’re ready, I’m here to support your journey. 

 Seeking a therapist can often feel overwhelming and you may find yourself wondering where to begin. As a first-generation Latina therapist I value the connection between mental health and personal identity, in supporting clients to feel seen and supported while embracing their unique experiences. Over the years I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is centered around providing you with a warm and comforting space. I appreciate working with clients who would like to explore their life experiences, depression, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem and relationships. I look forward to meeting you! 

 Life can get overwhelming and feel like you’re fighting a battle by yourself. I am here so you don’t have to fight your battle alone. I want to support you through your difficult time and guide you toward wellness. My goal is to help you heal from past hurts, overcome current struggles, and prepare for future challenges.

I emphasize a holistic approach - I see you as a person with a mind, body, and soul that has unique needs and strengths. I am here to attend to your emotional and mental health needs, while also helping you identify your strengths and how to use them to increase your life satisfaction.

Our therapeutic relationship will be one of collaboration, open communication, and problem solving so you can feel more prepared to tackle life’s challenges.