How we work together

Professional Orientation

I am proud to be a social worker. I embrace the profession’s mission of enhancing human wellbeing and meeting the basic human needs of all people, as well as the profession’s core values of:

  • Service

  • Social justice

  • Dignity and worth of the person

  • Importance of human relationships

  • Integrity

  • Competence

Hope and Belonging

I bring compassion and curiosity to our work. I have trust in your ability to find healing and connection to your own sense of possibility, power, and choice whatever your circumstances might be.

The liminal (“in between”) space of serious illness and end of life can feel lonely or isolating. Counseling offers a space to contemplate wholeness, values, purpose, relatedness to oneself and others. We can work together to discover meaning in living and dying to facilitate a sense of connectedness to what is most important to you.

I bring a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, anti-racist approach in my work and aim to be responsive and to affirm people of all races, genders, ages, abilities, and identities.

There are many forces that contribute to health disparities and inequity. I bring mindful awareness to the way these experiences create vulnerability.

More about my approach

  • I have unique experience working both “inside” and “outside” the health system; I use my “inside knowledge” to help folks as they navigate the complex health system to be their own best advocate.

    Supporting you from “outside” the health system allows for freedom to follow your lead and your agenda on the terms that matter to you.

    I believe in the inner wisdom of all people and possibilities for healing regardless of the circumstances.

  • I bring compassion and curiosity, readiness, willingness, full presence, and deep listening. You get to set the agenda and the pace that works right for you. Your questions are always welcomed and I won’t shy away from hard conversations.

  • Inclusion means deep respect and value for the lived experience, perspective, and identity of every person. I support all to live into their full potential.

  • I draw on a variety of strength based tools, theories, and approaches including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Mindfulness, Self Compassion, Narrative Therapy, and Grief/Loss/Bereavement.

My Training and Certifications

  • Education and Specialty Training

    Portland State University School of Social Work (MSW)

    Smith School of Social Work (End of Life Certificate Program)

    New York University (Zelda Foster Leadership Fellowship in Palliative and End of Life Care)

    University of Washington—Healthcare Ethics Consultation

  • Professional and Academic Affiliation

    Smith School of Social Work (Adviser)

    New York University School of Social Work (Mentor)

    Social Work Hospice and Palliative Care Network (Board Member)

    Oregon/SW Washington Palliative Care Social Work Network (Founder)

    Journal of Social Work in End of Life and Palliative Care (Editorial Board)

  • Licensure and Advanced Certification

    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in Oregon and Idaho

    APHSW-C (Advanced Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker, Certified)

    HEC-C (Healthcare Ethics Consultant, Certified)

For over 2 decades I have…

worked as a palliative care social worker, ethics consultant, educator, mentor, and facilitator in hospital, clinic, and university settings.

Outside of work…

I am the proud mother of 2 and am a lifelong learner. I find renewal and meaning in my relationships with my partner, family and friends, spending time outside, and enjoying the arts. I love plants and gardening, especially the way they connect me to the cycles and rhythms of life. 

Let me know more about you

...so we can start your journey today.