I began working as a helping professional in 2006 as a certified nurse’s aide. I always knew I wanted to help others in some capacity. When I started taking college classes, my path to becoming a therapist was not yet clear; until I found social work. After receiving my bachelor’s degree in social work from Buena Vista University in 2011, I did work ranging from helping families involved with Iowa DHHS to working as a counselor for patients in inpatient substance abuse treatment. While working as a counselor, I realized that I had a passion for meeting people where they are in their journey and assisting to meet their goals. I knew then that healing and growth comes from treating the person as a whole and I did not feel I had the proper education and training to do that. Therefore, I enrolled in graduate school.
In 2019, I received my master’s degree in social work from the University of Iowa and I have been practicing therapy on a clinical level since that time. My approach to therapy is from a holistic perspective, which is what brought me to Holistic Health. Their vision to treat the whole person very closely lines up with how I present myself as a therapist. I believe that mental health IS health and it goes hand in hand with physical health. It is something to be nurtured and maintained just as you would for your physical health. I have significant experience in working with addiction and am also trained in the following evidence based practices: EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Somatic Experiencing.
My husband and I and our three boys moved to Manning in 2022. Logistically, we needed something that made our work commutes a little easier. We looked at other communities but came back to Manning because it just felt right. It is such a nice community and we are looking forward to making more connections within. I really love all of the things Manning has to offer for such a small town and am excited to be able to offer a service that will only benefit the community more. When I am not working, my husband and I stay busy with the boys and our animals. I enjoy reading, spending time with my family and friends, and being outside.
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