About

I’m a Southern California native.  I chose the profession and practice of marriage and family therapy because I loved growing up in my own large family, and I believe in the strength of family systems.  I primarily focus on couples work because I consider the marital unit to be the most powerful source for change in the whole family.  I earned a bachelor’s degree in Family Science in 1989, a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 1992, and a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2013.  When I wasn’t working as a therapist, I was a stay-at-home mom with seven children.  My academic, clinical and life experiences inform my philosophy of change and interventions.  I simply love what I do and I would do the same thing again!

Besides seeing clients, I regularly present marriage, family and wellness lectures and workshops in the community to adults and youth groups.  I supervise therapists working toward permanent licensure in the community and supervise students in the Brigham Young University Marriage and Family Therapy Department.  I also teach undergraduate students at Utah Valley University in subjects related to human sexuality, family process, and introductory psychotherapy.  I have published several peer-reviewed journal articles and a book chapter specific to clinical supervision, and have presented my research at several national conferences. My research has been covered in national media outlets and addressed in television and radio interviews. I recently won a national award from the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) for my work related to therapy process with couples.  My preferred model for intervention with couples is Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and I am certified to practice and supervise therapists in this model.