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Certified Hakomi Therapist, Somatic Psychotherapist, Ecotherapist
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Hakomi Therapist with two decades of clinical experience. I believe that connecting deeply with ourselves and others is a crucial part of changing the world.
I became a therapist after working as a wilderness therapy guide in Utah and a Peace Corps volunteer in Nicaragua. After completing my Masters of Social Work at UNC-Chapel Hill, I spent five years working as a therapist with Spanish-speaking children and families in Durham.
In 2013, I began studying Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Somatic Psychotherapy and fell in love. As someone who had always pushed myself to “be better,” the gentleness and compassion at the heart of Hakomi felt like a balm.
This approach taught me that deep transformation happens when we bring loving curiosity to all of our parts, even those we would rather push away. My love for Hakomi has grown as I’ve assisted at several trainings and pursued advanced Hakomi supervision.
In 2018, I woke up to the realities of the climate and ecological crisis. My struggle with climate anxiety led me to become active in the Climate Psychology Alliance of North America and seek out further training in ecotherapy and climate resilience. As I’ve found community and practices that help me hold my own climate feelings, I have found a sense of purpose and hope in helping others move from overwhelm to meaningful engagement with the crisis.
In addition to my work, I enjoy walking in the woods, gardening, dancing, and cooking projects. I live with my partner and child near the Eno River in Durham, NC.
Education
Bachelors of Arts in American Studies, Barnard College, Columbia University, 1999
Master of Social Work, with a concentration in Adult Mental Health, UNC-Chapel Hill, 2007
Ecotherapy Level 1 Training with the Earthbody Institute (2024)
Thicket Climate Resiliency Training (2024)
Somatic Experiencing Training Level 1 (2017)
Hakomi Mindful Somatic Psychotherapy Comprehensive Training (2013-2016)
Child-Parent Psychotherapy Learning Collaborative (2007-2012)
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Training (2009-2010)
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy Training (2008-2009)
Experience
In full-time clinical practice since 2007; In private practice since 2013
Certified Hakomi Therapist (2021)
Hakomi Comprehensive Training Teaching Assistant (2019-2021, 2024)
Designed and led trainings in racial microaggressions, structural racism and coping with climate anxiety (2007-present)
In-home therapist for young Spanish-speaking children and their caregivers (2007-2013)
Youth Development Peace Corps Volunteer in an indigenous village in Nicaragua (2003-2004)
Wilderness Therapy Guide in Utah (2001-2003; 2005)
Dedicated mindfulness meditation practice since 1998, including many multi-day silent retreats
Ongoing commitment to my own growth through regular therapy and supervision