meet the clinicians

Why I Do What I Do

My passion for helping people began when I was a summer camp counselor in high school. I had the privilege of working with a child diagnosed with autism, and I found a deep sense of joy in making a difference in that child’s life.

My Background and My Clients

After becoming a proud graduate of Salina South High School, I went on to receive my bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Fort Hays State University and my Masters of Social Work from Washburn University.

I worked with individuals and families in the foster care system for three years prior to becoming a therapist. This experience gave me a foundation for understanding where my clients are coming from and the expertise I needed to best serve them. It also led me to specialize in helping children who have been through trauma, such as sexual abuse or being in foster care, although I help people of all ages.

As a Licensed Specialized Clinical Social Worker, I’m trained in attachment-based therapies. I also hold certifications in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Play Therapy. I am also a Registered Play Therapist. So whether your child or your family needs to improve communication or relationships or you or a family member is working through past or current trauma, you can be assured that your therapy sessions will be a helpful, safe, nurturing, and healing experience.

Why I Do What I Do

I have been in private practice since 2019 and worked at a psychiatric residential treatment facility prior to that. I work best with adults ages 25 and older.  Through my training and experience I have come to believe that depression, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors occur for a reason.  It isn’t until we find a safe place with meaningful connection that we can then begin to make sense of the stories of our life and understand why we do what we do.  I have trainings in The Gottman Method, Levels 1 & 2 for couples therapy and communication skills, Polyvagal Theory for soothing the traumatized brain, Grief counseling to work through both shock and developmental trauma, and Attachment Theory thru Narrative Therapy.

Why I Do What I Do

I am a native of Salina, I have always been a helper person, even as a child, all of my growing up experiences led me to social work in college, so I could work with people who are in need of support and acceptance, like I received during my tough years as a teen, when I had people reach out to me and help me.  After 27 years of marriage, my husband died, in early 2020.  I have 2 nephews who keep me busy and a little sister through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.  In my spare time, I like to do crafts and am a football fan.

My Background and My Clients

After graduating from Salina South High, I went to college at Wichita State University, where I earned my Bachelor’s in Social Work.  I worked for the Department of Child and Family Services for 6 months in Wichita and then entered my 25 year career in Foster Care Services/Child Welfare.  During that time, I went back to school and earned my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Kansas.  I later pursued my play therapy certification from Mid America Nazarene University.  In 2018, I changed career directions and left Foster Care Services/Child Welfare for Mental Health Care, and began work as an Outpatient Therapist at a Mental Health Center, working with people aged 3 to 80.  I continue to enjoy working with adults and children of all ages.  

I have received training in Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, Theraplay, Trauma Informed Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, Attachment Based Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.  I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Grief Counseling, Technology Addiction in Children and Adolescents, AutPlay Therapy, as well as a Registered Play Therapist.

Meet our Therapy Dog in Training

Moose is our enthusiastic, tail-wagging team member in training! As a therapy dog, he’s learning how to support clients by offering comfort, calm, and a gentle presence when it’s needed most. While he’s still a pup and full of playful energy, Moose is already making big strides in understanding how to help people feel safe and supported.

He loves belly rubs, ear scratches, and being part of the healing process here at Live Well Therapy. If you spot him in the office, don’t be shy—Moose is always happy to say hi (especially if treats are involved). 🦴