Couples, Trauma
and Sex Therapy
Direct and compassionate therapy to help you be a better you
Watching people grow up close is a unique honor.
I walk alongside brave and courageous individuals and couples as they strive to become better than they are, overcome what they feel overwhelmed by, become who they dare dream of becoming, and develop the strength to love well.
With a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Masters degree in marriage and family therapy, I specialize in couples, sex therapy and trauma, in Houston, Texas with over 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. I am a differentiation-based therapist, trained in the Sexual Crucible approach by Dr. David Schnarch and Dr. Ruth Moorehouse. I am also an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Spiritual Director. Additionally, I provide somatic-based EMDR therapy with Natural Processing.
I approach my clients with a unique combination of compassion and honesty. My therapeutic approach is based on a growth model within a healing relational framework. Hence by empowering and equipping clients, previously hopeless situations now represent new opportunities for growth.
Training the next generation of therapists
Watching therapists grow is also a great honor. My role as the founder and clinical director of Fuller Life Family Therapy Institute, allows me to train the next generation of therapists. Fuller Life is a non-profit counseling training organization providing accessible and affordable therapy to the community and an opportunity for training and mentoring developing marriage and family therapists.
Being an adjunct professor at the Houston Graduate School of Theology now Kairos University for the master’s and doctorate program in counseling provides another avenue to train future therapists. I serve as the sexuality specialization director and director for the Trauma, Grief, and Loss specialization for the doctorate in professional counseling.
Inclusive and Affirming
I hold deeply personal beliefs in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. My practice is an affirming and welcoming space for LGBTQ individuals and couples where they can explore their identities, relationships, and experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive practice that actively works against racism and promotes diversity and equality. Additionally, I am sex-positive and affirming, recognizing and respecting each client’s unique journey. I aim to help individuals navigate their paths, whether it involves coming out, transitioning, or exploring other aspects of their sexuality and identity. My goal is to support clients in finding empowerment, authenticity, and fulfillment in their lives.
For fun…
I’m a lifelong Texan, have been married for over 28 years, and have two children. My hobbies include traveling, going to the theatre, reading, yoga, triathlons, spending time with my children, and dating my husband. I also greatly enjoy speaking for various churches, organizations, and retreats. My husband and I were honored to be named Distinguished Alumni for 2015 by our alma mater, Abilene Christian University.
To schedule an appointment you may call my office line (832) 848-0870 or submit a confidential web form online. You can find more information about my approach, fees, insurance, hours, and location here on my website.
May you be well,
MASTERS DEGREE (M.MFT)
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY
ABILENE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
1998-1996
Family Play Therapy: Using Play to build Connection, TAMFT Annual Conference, 1998
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PHD)
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY
ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY
2002-2006
Dissertation: “Spirituality and Quality of life in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation Treatment: A Multifactor Analysis”
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST
TEXAS, SINCE 2006
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST-BOARD APPROVED SUPERVISOR
TEXAS, SINCE 2011
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
TEXAS, SINCE 2001
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR-BOARD APPROVED SUPERVISOR
TEXAS, SINCE 2011
Additional Significant Clinical Training
Erickson Clinical Hypnosis
2003
Over 90 hours of training in the use of Hypnosis for Clinical treatment with the Erickson Institute of Dallas.
CERTIFIED CLINICAL TRAUMA PROFESSIONAL
2020
Evergreen Certifications
Telemental Health
Training in the use of technology assisted therapy.
AASECT
American Association of American Association of Sexuality, Educators, Counselors and Therapists, 2014-present
AAMFT
American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, 2006-present
Texas Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
Houston Association of Marriage and Family Therapy