Therapy Style
Over the last 20 years, as researchers have studied what it is about therapy that helps clients to accomplish their goals, they have found that the strength of the therapeutic relationship is twice as important as the type of planning, advice, and solutions that the therapist provides. What the client brings to the table—willingness to grow and change, determination, supportive outside relationships, and skills—is even more important than what the therapist brings (see graphic to the right).
Because I want your therapy to be as successful as possible, my primary focus will be on building a trusting, supportive relationship with you that will allow us to move forward. I will ask you about the kinds of skills and support systems you already have working for you and we will collaborate to build strong resources outside of our sessions that can support your growth process during and after therapy.
Regarding techniques, I strive to keep up-to-date on the research about therapeutic approaches and techniques that have been most successful with the particular concerns you bring, and that fit well with the kind of person you are. We will go as fast or as slow as you would like.
In my work with you, I will draw on the following approaches to therapy, tailoring them to fit your needs within a specific, consistent treatment plan: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, Existential, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, Family Systems, Emotion-Focused, and Dialectic Behavior (DBT).

My own spiritual background is in the Christian tradition. If it is important to you to approach your therapy from this world view, please let me know. Regardless of your philosophical and spiritual background and preferences, I will always strive to support you in pursuing the values and resources that you feel will best support your progress in therapy.
Education
MA, Counseling, CACREP Accredited Counseling Licensure Program, DENVER SEMINARY
MA, English Literature,
BA, English and American Literature,
Certifications
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Prepare and Enrich Marital and Pre-Marital Counseling Certification
Publications
Bogue, B.; Diebel, J.; O'Connor, T. (2008). Combining Officer Supervision Skills. Perspectives: The Journal of the American Probation and Parole Association, 32(2), 30-45.
Group, Inc. (2009). Group's emergency response handbook: Answers and tips for parents. Loveland, CO: Group Publishing, Inc.
Other Areas of Expertise
In addition to my background in counseling, I am also experienced in the following areas: