About Deborah
Welcome to the counseling experience. It has the potential to be a turning point in your life — creating hope for the future and healing for the past. I have experience working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, guilt and shame, recovery from physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse, trauma and Complex PTSD, identity, self-image, spiritual development, and spiritual abuse.
I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges. The art of counseling is in the sensitivity, presence, attunement, and humility that a counselor demonstrates when building a relationship with a client.
Education & Training
I earned my Master's Degree in Professional Counseling through Western Seminary, Portland, OR — a program approved by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). I am also a member of the American Counseling Association, the National Board for Certified Counselors, and the National Christian Counselors Association.
My Approach
My counseling orientation is integrative — drawing on both psychodynamic exploration (examining links between current and past relationships) and cognitive approaches (examining thoughts and beliefs). I believe people are influenced by their biological temperament, life experiences, past and present relationships, and their core values.
Many problems are the result of emotions, thoughts, or impulses we are not yet willing to acknowledge — and therefore cannot change. Where it serves the client's needs, I am also able to integrate my Christian worldview and theological training into the counseling process.
I view counseling as a collaborative effort in helping clients recognize strengths, identify needs, understand conflicts, discover new options, set personal growth goals, and make informed choices.
While I operate from a Christian worldview and enjoy helping people connect with God, I do not impose my beliefs or opinions onto clients.
Personal Life
When I'm not working, you'll find me enjoying my grandsons, cooking, watching movies, and spending time outdoors.
Ready to take the first step? Request an appointment with Deborah today.
Request an Appointment