Specialties

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Perinatal Mental Health

I am proud to be one of only 12 mental health professionals within 100 miles of Wayland to be fully certified as a Perinatal Mental Health specialist through Postpartum Support International.  As a Mama of two young kiddos I understand the unique stress and difficulty that expecting mamas, new mamas and families who are navigating fertility struggles can face. I am deeply passionate about making sure that each and every Mama feels encouraged, supported, seen and loved. 

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Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

The impacts of trauma are deep and can often be misinterpreted or mislabeled. If you or someone you love has experienced trauma I want you to know that there is hope for healing and that with the right support you will find freedom again.

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As I work with trauma survivors I focus on empowering them to feel in charge of their healing process, providing an environment to learn about the brain science behind trauma reactions and healing (Evidence Based neuroscience!), and how to develop mastery over trauma triggers.  I completed the Trauma Specialization as well as the Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)  Training Project at Western Michigan University through the course of my graduate degree and I am honored to be able to bring Evidenced- Based (read: proven to be effective) treatment to my clients. 

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Other Areas of Focus

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• Child Abuse & Neglect

• Foster Parent Support & Trauma Informed Parenting Practices

• Foster Care & Adoption

• Pregnancy & Postpartum

• Secondary Traumatic Stress & Burnout

• Depression

• Anxiety​

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Experience

 

Prior to completing graduate school I worked in the child welfare system for three years in foster care and adoption. It was through that work that I became deeply passionate about helping to build the capacities of children and families to understand and heal from Trauma. I have worked in private practice in the Kalamazoo area since 2019 and look forward to continuing for years to come. 

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Education

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• MSW- Western Michigan University

  • Trauma Across the Lifespan Specialization

  • Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Training Project

• Bachelors in Social Work, Western Michigan University

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Certification

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• Perinatal Mental Health-Certified through Postpartum Support International

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Personal Statement

 

Life is filled with seasons that we don’t see coming. Some are beautiful and some make you feel like you have lost track of which way is up. Every day can feel like a battle. No matter where you are, my desire as a clinician is to come alongside you, or your child & family, as you navigate the challenges on your journey towards healing & deep, abiding peace. 

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My goal is to create space for you or your child to experience the freedom that comes with the challenging work of growth and healing. Whether you are a new mother in need of a place to sit with a cup of coffee and feel supported through postpartum adjustment; a parent who longs to help their child cope with trauma, a foster parent desperate for space to process the demands of selflessly loving children who have experienced trauma; or if you are ready to heal from trauma of your own, my door is open. It is my sincere honor to come alongside you as you take this courageous step toward tangible and positive life change.