Aikido, Existential-Phenomenological Psychology & Psychotherapy
My Education & Experience
Professional Affiliations
Aikido, Existential - Phenomenology & Psychotherapy
The foundation of my work as a psychotherapist comes from two main sources; Aikido and Existential - Phenomenological Psychology. Aikido is a non-violent conflict resolution oriented martial art developed in Japan. Existential-Phenomenological psychology has its roots in Europe and blends aspects of traditional psychoanalytic theory with a philosophical lens toward how we make meaning of our lives.
In my psychotherapy practice these two studies provide me with a balance of Eastern and Western systems of viewing what it is to be human. They both offer ways to ethically and effectively engage in relationship with yourself and everyone around you. Both studies emphasize holding theories or techniques in a way that authenticity plays the central role. They both recognize that life happens in relationship and in a co-created space.
One of the reasons I love working with children is that they demand authenticity. If they feel coerced in any way they will react with distance - sometimes emotionally, sometimes energetically, and sometimes physically. Aikido and Existential-Phenomenological Psychology provide me with tools needed to enter into an honest process of healing with a child and their parent(s). Back to top
My Education & Experience
I have over 15 years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, including child care work, leading new mom's groups, working in a school for homeless children, working in a psychotherapy clinic for children, teaching Aikido to children ages 4 - 14, and the individual work in my own practice.
I feel strongly about supporting the community through volunteer work. I am currently a volunteer therapist for The Psychotherapy Cooperative, and recently completed a year as a volunteer therapist at Jumping Mouse Children's Center in Port Townsend. I have volunteered at The King County Crisis Line and many other non-profits doing needed work in the community.
I hold a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Antioch University. I have been studying Aikido since 1999 and have achieved the level of second degree black belt. I continually attend workshops and lectures in order to expand my knowledge and skill. Currently I am in a two-year professional training program at the North Pacific Institute for Analytical Psychology (a study of C.G. Jung's work). I recently completed a year of training in child psychotherapy at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. I keep close ties with mentors who have many years of experience and support my work. Back to top
Professional Affiliations
Jumping Mouse Children's Center
North Pacific Institute for Analytical Psychology
