“I was a teacher for 15 years and realized that kids needed me more in a more therapeutic, emotional way than as a teacher. Post Covid, thier increased needs for therapy became so much more apparent and I realized I wanted to serve families in a different way.”
2. What drew you to working with children and families, and what do you enjoy most about that work?
I love supporting parents and kids because being a parent is the hardest job in the world! Community and support are essential and I love being a support system and person in family and parenting dynamics. I also love watching families (especially kids) grow emotionally.”
3. Parents are often surprised by how much happens in a play therapy session. What do you wish more parents knew about play therapy?
I wish parents knew that play is so important developmentally for kids and play really is the child’s language. We learn so much about their child and how their brain works through play. Play lets us connect, which is the ultimate goal.
4. How do you partner with parents throughout their child’s therapy journey?
I keep in close touch via email and parent consultations. Depending on the child, I recommend an adult session (consultations) around once per month. I also invite parents into the playroom if their child wishes to share at the end of each session. We discuss goals, progress, and celebrations.
5. You also work with teens and adults. What do you enjoy about working with clients across different stages of life? I love watching kids and families grow and supporting kids/teens as they grow. Watching someone enter a new phase of life or journey from a supportive lens is extremely rewarding. Working with different ages taps into different parts of my life and brain and also helps me grow and learn as a person and therapist. Besides that, teens are super fun!
6. Your practice is inclusive of neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ clients. How do you create a therapeutic space where people feel safe, respected, and affirmed? I’m a pretty open book. I love to connect with people from all walks of life and I believe building a theraputic relationship and rapport begins with all of those things (safety, respect, affirmation). If I can share a bit about my family or my perspective to connect or help, I often lean into that.
7. Every therapist has a unique style. How would you describe yours in three words? Affirming, connected, and playful.
8. What do clients often say they appreciate most about working with you? They share that I’m funny, affirming, and always pushing them forward in a kind way.
9. Therapy can feel intimidating for someone who has never gone before. What would you say to someone who’s feeling nervous about taking that first step? Asking for help is the bravest thing you can do. You might feel alone during a season in life, but support and help and feeling less alone is on the other side.
10. What do you enjoy doing outside of the therapy office? I love being outside, seeing live music and being with my friends, family and dog, Norah.
11. If you could give every parent one piece of advice, what would it be? Play with your kids.
12. If someone is considering therapy with you, what would you want them to know before they walk through the door? This is a safe space and help and support are on the way.
Coffee or tea? Coffee
Favorite way to spend a sunny Minnesota day? Riding my bike with my headphones blaring good music
Dogs or cats? (Or both?) Dogs
Favorite board game or toy to use in the playroom? Don’t Break the Ice, currently
Morning person or night owl? Night owl
One word your friends would use to describe you? Outgoing
One thing that always makes you smile? Puppies
