Sandtray Specialist
I went to Trinity Bible College to pursue a major in Business Management and a minor in counseling with big dreams. Right out of college I started at New Beginnings Center, where I began to learn more about my career journey and passions. I decided to pursue a career in counseling. I graduated from Northern State University with my Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in a residential facility as a case manager and a program director. I worked in community mental health as a clinical specialist. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults and families in the Aberdeen area since 2009. I have helped individuals cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment to life stresses, addiction related issues, bullying issues, suicidal ideation, grief issues, mood disorders, anger management, parent/child relationships and more. I utilize a variety of modalities based on each individual and family’s needs. Some approaches I utilize include: CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Schema Therapy and Mindfulness. I also incorporate faith and spirituality into sessions for individuals who desire. I am trained in Love and Logic Parenting and have facilitated group presentations of Love and Logic.
My passion is providing a safe space for individuals to feel comfortable and better connect to themselves. Rising Hope is a great name, because that is what a clinicians goal is to help hope rise in the midst of life challenges and help individuals and families develop skills to overcome barriers and challenges. My goal is to help others find their strength and feel empowered through finding connection to self and others. I believe all individuals whether a parent, child, teenager, adult or a couple are all in need of a safe, non-judgmental environment to begin their journey to overcome barriers and that is the environment that I provide to all clients who walk through the doors of Rising Hope.
Personally I have had the opportunity to see the foster care system in all different aspects as I grew up in the foster care system in North Dakota, I provided therapy and case management to foster children and families in South Dakota, I myself was a foster parent who was blessed with becoming an adoptive parent. I have seen and experienced how healing from our hurts gives us a better quality of life. I have two beautiful, energetic, fun, creative boys who keep me active. We enjoy family activities of mini golf, camping, corn hole, bike riding, sports, disc golf, swimming, board games, etc. Our Faith in Jesus is an important part of our family.
