I am a Licensed Psychologist with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (TX License #37127; Expires 3/31/2024). For information on how to verify a license, please click here. For information on how to file a complaint, please click here.
I am also a PSYPACT credentialed provider, which allows me to see clients in certain states outside of Texas. Click here for more information on PSYPACT participating states.
My Approach to Therapy
When you decide to reach out for help from a therapist, you want someone who is empathetic, trustworthy, and invested in you. Research confirms this. The best predictor of therapy success is your relationship with your therapist – do you like her, is she trustworthy, do you share common goals? My first priority is creating a strong relationship with you. Therapy can be hard work, and for us to be successful together we need to have a strong bond, an ability to be honest with each other, and the confidence to challenge ourselves to make sure you reach all of your treatment goals.
I also believe in using therapy practices that are based on scientific evidence. You are investing significant time, money, and energy into therapy, so I believe strongly that it is my duty to provide you with support that is grounded in the latest research in order to maximize your improvements. My primary approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing. These approaches are not a fit for everyone, so I pick and choose based on my experience to meet your individual needs.
Clients who are most successful in my practice take a practical, problem-solving approach to improving their lives. We are only together for an hour a week, so much of the work occurs outside of my office. We will likely spend a little time each session discussing concrete steps you can take in the next week to reach your goals, and we’ll review them the following week. I believe this process helps empower you to take control of the changes you want to see in yourself and results in better long-term results.
Education and Qualifications
I completed my bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in philosophy at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. I completed my doctor of philosophy (PhD) in clinical psychology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I completed my pre-doctoral internship (APA-accredited) at the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System in Austin, TX.
I have received specialized training in several therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing. Prior to opening my private practice, I was a staff psychologist and clinic lead at the Central Texas VA.
I have published numerous peer-reviewed research articles, presented at local and national psychology conferences, served as an ad hoc reviewer for research journals, and am a credentialed provider with the National Register of Health Service Psychologists.
On a Personal Note
I am a former gymnast and track athlete raised in the suburbs of Minneapolis, MN. I moved to Austin in 2012 and have fully embraced life in Texas – especially the winters! Outside of work I enjoy cooking, trying new restaurants, running, traveling, and spending time with my husband and young son.