Welcome
Who I Am
I grew up in rural Utah, and decided on psychology as a profession when I was 15 years old.
I met my future husband John during the first week of college in Logan--we took turns getting through school while raising our five children.
We've lived in rural central and southern Utah, Houston Texas, Oahu Hawaii, London England, and home again to the Wasatch Front. We have four grandchildren who are brave, smart, strong, beautiful, and challenging.
Treatment Focus
Most new clients come for help with anxiety or depression in one form or another. We focus on understanding ourselves, our relationships, and our behavior, and in changing what we can and accepting what we can't. We work on finding joy in who we are and what we have.
Over the years I've been interested in many types of treatment, and have settled into an eclectic mix of mainstream CBT, exploratory emotion- and relationship-focused therapy, and meditation/mindfulness practice. Therapy is intensely individualized. We may use art, writing, or music in our therapy sessions.
My Patient Promise
Many people are reluctant to try therapy even when they know they need help. I have a low-key, gentle approach, but I promise to give clients my most honest and knowledgeable feedback as we work through the difficult issues.
Treatment
Depression & Anxiety
Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, clients are able to recover the motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Trauma & PTSD
Many individuals experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. With careful therapy, you can overcome these symptoms and move through the process of grief and healing.
Relationships
Relationship counseling can be beneficial to couples who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection, in all stages of their relationship. Therapy sessions can be a supportive place to discuss issues and solutions to better strengthen your relationship.
Education and Credentials
Professional Education
PhD in Clinical Psychology, Brigham Young University, 1998
Predoctoral Internship at the BYU Counseling Center
Postdoctoral Residency at Valley Mental Health, SLC
MS in Counseling Psychology, Utah State University, 1986
Work Experience
Private practice since 2001
Nine years adolescent residential treatment and evaluation in Utah and Texas
Two years BYU Counseling Center
One year LDS Family Services
Two years adult forensic treatment and evaluation
Private and public psychiatric inpatient treatment
Credentials
Utah Psychology License #376636-2501
Utah Psychological Association, member
American Psychological Association, member
Specialties and Areas of Interest
Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders
Chronic and severe mental illness
Personality disorders
Recovery from trauma and abuse
Couples therapy
Career counseling
Stress management, time management, and relaxation training
LDS issues and spirituality
Divorce adjustment
Grief counseling
Women's issues
LGBTQ+ and gender issues
Areas not included:
Substance abuse or eating disorder treatment as the primary focus (brief assessments in these areas may be provided and referrals made)
Child treatment or evaluation (below age 12)
Payment
Payment requirements
Come prepared to make payment arrangements during your first session. Copayments or self-payments are due at the end of each visit.
Insurance listings
EMI (Educators Mutual)
Cigna Behavioral Health
Regence Bluecross/Blueshield
SelectHealth
Plans differ, even within the same insurance company. Patients should check with their insurance regarding coverage before coming in.
I am not currently a Medicare provider. Utah County clients covered by Medicaid are generally required to go to Wasatch Mental Health for treatment. Exceptions are rarely allowed.