For 36 years, I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and since 1991, in Washington State (License #LF00001016). As a Washington State Certified Child Specialist, I specialize in working with children and adolescents having issues with anger management, ADD/ADHD, depression, PTSD, and anxiety disorders. I'm also experienced in working with adults suffering from depression, anger management, ADD, PTSD, and anxiety disorders, and am equally experienced in couples and family work. I work with individuals suffering from substance abuse-related issues.
I have significant experience working with clients from the law enforcement and military communities and their families.
Clinical Supervision
I am trained and approved as a clinical supervisor and consultant to those seeking licensure as marriage and family and mental health therapists in Washington State, as well as to established therapists.
My Background:
In 1976, I completed my undergraduate work in Psychology at San Jose State University. I then earned my master's degree at California State University, East Bay, in Clinical Counseling (1983).
In 1984, I completed the requirements for California licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy. Requirements for licensure included:
·Masters degree in psychology or related field ·Completion of 2000 hours of therapy work ·Passage of both written and oral examinations
After moving to Washington State, I was granted a license in Washington State as a Marriage and Family Therapist in 1991.
I was employed for several years as a therapist in a psychiatric facility in a hospital setting for children and adolescents. I then worked for several years with troubled youth within the juvenile justice system, followed by intense work with adult offenders, many of whom suffered from severe mental health and substance abuse addiction issues.
In addition to private practices in Tacoma and Vashon Island, I am employed as a therapist with youth and adults at Vashon Youth and Family Services. Within this agency, I am also a clinical supervisor and consultant for those seeking licensure as a marriage and family therapist in Washington State.
For 18 years, I was an adjunct professor at Seattle University within the Criminal Justice and Anthropology, Sociology, and Social Work Departments, where I teach Community Corrections and Addiction Studies, respectively. In addition, I was an instructor at Argosy University in Seattle, teaching Forensic Psychology courses.
I am a certified mediator in Washington, and a mental health professional and child specialist in collaborative law. My experience as a marriage and family therapist has contributed greatly to my work in both these areas.
My work as a therapist has brought me in contact with children, adolescents, and adults with an array of difficulties, including depression, anxiety disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, etc. I specialize in working with children and their families, particularly around adjustment disorders and anger issues.
I also have significant experience working with law enforcement and military personnel and their families.
My Therapeutic Approach:
I strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and am passionate about my work. I believe all are capable of change and my role is to help facilitate that change. I am comfortable and competent in conducting individual, couples, and family therapy.
I have an eclectic approach to my work. I was trained years ago in a Rogerian or non-directive approach, but I have also been trained in various other treatment modalities. I often use cognitive behavioral training approaches, and find Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) particularly helpful. I find a "cookie-cutter" approach is often an ineffective one, so I draw from different approaches, depending on the individual’s needs and issues.
I have also had life experiences which have added richly to my work as a therapist. I am a father of three children, as well as a life partner. I am also active in my community, serving on committees dedicated to reducing substance abuse among Vashon Island youth. I am a board member of our local theater group, Drama Dock, and have done some acting. I stay balanced through physical activity (biking, hiking, kayaking) and enjoy playing the guitar and banjo.
I have been an active member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT) and the International Academy of Collaborative (Law) Professionals (IACP).
I welcome the opportunity to discuss my work and approach. I'm fully aware of the importance of finding the right therapeutic fit and encourage all to conduct thorough research before making a decision. I am happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the process.