I’m a seasoned therapist with three primary areas of practice:
Already well-established in clinical practice, my journey to specialization in chronic pain began quite literally by accident. I was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CPRS) after hand surgery following an accident. Many surgeries, procedures, doctors, and support groups later, I dove into the research. I spoke with respected pain management doctors, got clinical trainings, studied best practices in pain management, studied emerging models of the brain's response to pain, and I did the work of therapy myself. Since then, I have helped clients reduce their pain, find new competency, reframe their lives and abilities, and live more fully.
Specific phobia treatment has a special place in my heart as well. I love the empowerment piece of phobia therapy. I enjoy supporting clients who want to recover quickly, to address that fear in one day. These clients are always amazed at what they're able to accomplish by that same afternoon. Some clients prefer a weekly approach to therapy for their phobia. Working collaboratively and compassionately, I'm happy to meet them where they are, as we work out a plan for our approach. Whether I'm helping someone move past their fear of doctor's offices, dogs, or spiders, seeing them become victorious over the fear is an honor and a privilege.
...but I didn't begin my career focusing on phobias and pain! Prior to establishing these brief treatment programs for specific phobias and chronic pain, my work focused on providing compassionate exposure-based treatment for clients with trauma histories. For 16 years, my practice included providing therapy with survivors of sexual trauma, interpersonal violence, accidents, natural disasters, combat, and the exposure experienced by emergency response personnel. I became proficient in the most effective treatments for PTSD in adults (EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure). I currently utilize my expertise in trauma-focused therapies to help chronic pain clients address past experiences which may be exacerbating pain and disease. (This is an option for further work if they choose.)
I'm proud to have completed the rigorous process of becoming a Certified EMDR Therapist and to be rated as having "expert knowledge and proficiency" in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I'm certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy and proficient in CBT, as well.
Prior to establishing my private clinical practice, I served as clinical director and a lead therapist with two interdisciplinary trauma and wellness clinics in central Arkansas. I also worked for 6 years as a full-time therapist on the PTSD Clinical Team at the Central AR Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHS). While at CAVHS, I coordinated and provided treatment in the Military Sexual Trauma Recovery Program as well.
Clinically, I'm particularly interested in neuroplasticity/brain remodeling, the mind-body connection, the healing power of nature, and gender issues. I enjoy spending time with my family and my beautifully diverse group of friends. In my free time I can also be found traveling, hiking with our dogs, camping, and napping.
Hillside Building, 1501 N. Pierce Street, Suite 103, Little Rock, AR 72207
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