Educational Background:
2006 – M.A., Religious Studies; University of Colorado
2002 – M.S., Counseling Psychology; Central Washington University
2000 – B.A., History, minor Religious Studies; Westminster College
1998 – A.S., General Studies; Salt Lake Community College
Professional Background:
I think one of the most valuable things I bring to the classroom is extensive real-world clinical experience. Having professional experience in an in-patient acute psychiatric unit, outpatient counseling with children, adolescents, and families, and college campus counseling allows me to have in-depth conversations with those students who are considering any of the helping professions. It also provides important relevant context in courses that address clinical topics such as Abnormal Psychology and General Psychology II, among others.
Another invaluable experience I bring to the classroom is being a first-generation college student and graduate from a community college. I can say without a doubt that I would not be where I am today had I not attended a community college. It built a strong academic foundation, provided guidance and support, and gave me the confidence so many first-gen college students need. Having that personal community college experience allows me to relate to my students in a more meaningful way.
In my courses I strive to have safe, relevant and open dialogue about the intricacies and complexities of what it means to be human on social, emotional, cognitive and behavioral levels. Investigating the human mind via psychology courses helps students understand themselves and others in a profoundly deep way and creates a life-long invitation to what an old professor of mine called the party of the mind. Welcome to the party!
Personal Interests:
Painting, piano, Zen and anything Star Wars