Meet the Team

  • Owner and Therapist

    Why did you start Lighthouse Counseling?
    I opened Lighthouse Counseling in 2018 to create more than a therapy practice—a space that feels warm, peaceful, and restorative. I believe the environment where healing happens is just as important as the therapy itself, so every detail in our office—from natural light and greenery to textures and colors—is designed to help you feel calm and cared for. Alongside a great team of skilled and compassionate clinicians, my goal was to create a space where both clients and clinicians feel valued, supported, and empowered.

    Who do you work with?
    I work with adults (18+) and couples who are navigating challenges or who simply don’t feel like themselves. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, relationships, burnout, and addiction.

    How do you help your clients?
    I take a holistic, strength-focused approach, looking at all parts of a person—their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, experiences, and nervous system. Each piece plays an important role in how we handle stress, process emotions, and make choices. Together, we explore how these parts connect, identify your strengths, and build practical tools to help you heal, grow, and approach life with more clarity, confidence, and intention. I use evidence-based approaches and tailor everything to fit your unique story and goals.

    What is your background?
    I have over 19 years of experience providing therapy in community mental health, inpatient and outpatient programs, substance use treatment, and university counseling centers. I am a licensed therapist in Iowa and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

    In addition to clinical work, I have conducted and published original research on post-traumatic growth and flourishing, which informs my evidence-based approach to therapy. I hold a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Grand View University, a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Drake University, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Capella University.

    I integrate research, clinical expertise, and evidence-based strategies to help clients navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and achieve personal growth. My focus is on practical, results-oriented support.

    What do you do outside of work?
    I gravitate toward things that calm me and help me recharge. I love traveling and exploring the world. Spending time with family and friends is deeply meaningful to me, and I also enjoy my alone time. I love to run—especially long distances, do Pilates, and get lost in a good book.

    Who would be a good fit working with you?

    I would be a good fit for those who are ready to explore themselves, heal, and evolve. True change often comes with the loss of something familiar, which is why so many want to change but end up staying the same. In our work together, I offer unconditional support, guidance, practical tools, and gentle challenges, helping you navigate that process.

  • Therapist

    What is your background?

    I have over 15 years of clinical experience working in a variety of mental health settings. My background includes providing care in substance use treatment programs, college campus counseling centers, and private practice. Through this work, I’ve supported individuals with diverse needs, life experiences, and goals.

    Working across these environments has shaped a flexible and well‑rounded approach to therapy. I’m comfortable supporting clients through both short‑term challenges and longer‑term personal growth, and I draw on my broad experience to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique situation.

    Who do you work with?

    I work with individuals who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or finding it hard to manage life’s challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship concerns, or navigating a major life transition, I strive to offer a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe to explore what’s going on and begin creating meaningful change. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking emotional well‑being, personal growth, and resilience, and who value self‑reflection and a collaborative, trusting therapeutic relationship.

     How do you help your clients?

    I work collaboratively with clients to understand their thoughts and emotions, break unhelpful patterns, and build skills that support meaningful, lasting change. Therapy is focused on helping you move toward what matters most to you while navigating life’s challenges with greater clarity and balance.

     What do you do outside of work?

    Outside of my work as a therapist, I’m a married parent of two children who keep me busy with their soccer schedules and everyday family life. I enjoy spending time with my family, being involved in my kids’ activities, and finding balance between work and home. I also have a strong love of learning and reading, and I value personal growth both professionally and personally. These experiences help ground me and shape the way I show up with curiosity, patience, and perspective—both in and out of the therapy space.

    Who would be a good fit working with you?

    You might be a good fit for working with me if you’re looking for a therapist who is supportive, collaborative, and practical. I help clients understand their thoughts and emotions, break unhelpful patterns, and move toward what matters most to them.

    My approach focuses on empowerment—building insight, confidence, and skills so you feel more capable of navigating life’s challenges both in and outside of therapy. 

  • Therapist

    What is your background?

    I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with specialized experience working with adults impacted by childhood trauma and grief. I am trained in evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches including ACT, CBT, CPT, EFT, and EMDR. My work focuses on understanding how early experiences shape emotional patterns, beliefs, and relationships in adulthood.

    Who do you work with?

    I work primarily with adults navigating the long-term effects of childhood trauma, emotional neglect, and loss. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment-related concerns, anger, and interpersonal or relationship difficulties. Many of my clients are thoughtful, self-reflective individuals who struggle with shame, self-criticism, grief, or difficulty trusting themselves and others.

    How do you help your clients?

    I help clients understand how past experiences show up in present-day thoughts, emotions, relationships, and coping patterns. Therapy may include processing unresolved grief, increasing emotional awareness, perspective-taking, shifting unhelpful beliefs, and developing more compassionate ways of relating to yourself and others. My approach is collaborative, paced, and focused on meaningful, sustainable change.

    What do you do outside of work?

    Outside of work, I enjoy reading and spending time with my husband, cat, and dog. We stay active through winter and summer game leagues such as bowling, volleyball, and pool. I also enjoy tending to my two fish tanks and caring for my potted and aquatic plants, which helps me stay grounded and present.

    Who would be a good fit working with you?

    You may want to work with me if you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, thoughtful, and deeply attuned to the impact of childhood trauma and grief. I offer a non-judgmental space where you can explore difficult experiences at your own pace and build greater insight, self-compassion, and agency.

  • Therapist

    What is your background?

    With over 20 years of experience working with children and teens, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to nurture self-confidence and emotional well-being. I hold master’s degrees in education and School Counseling, along with my Mental Health Licensure (tLMHC). This blend of education and experience has given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges that young people and families face. I believe we’re all a work in progress, and it’s my joy to help clients navigate life’s stressors and setbacks. 

    Who do you work with?

    I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults. Each stage of life presents unique challenges, and I love supporting my clients through these journeys! Whether it's anxiety, the heaviness of life, a traumatic event, or a search for clarity, I’m here to support. I’m a good match for clients interested in clinical hypnotherapy, visualization, and/or an emphasis on the mind-body connection.

    How do you help your clients?

    I use a mix of approaches tailored to each client’s needs, including hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy strategies, visualization, and compassionate listening. My goal is to embrace my clients' visions and goals, guiding them as we explore their challenges together. We’ll celebrate strengths as we work toward a brighter, more fulfilling future! 

    What do you do outside of work? 

    When I’m not in the office, you can find me enjoying nature, moving my body in ways that feel good, and giving love to my plants! I also cherish spending time with friends and family. I believe nurturing these aspects of life enriches my perspective and strengthens the support I can offer my clients. 

    Who would be a good fit working with you?

    Choosing to work with me means entering a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel safe and empowered. I genuinely care about each client’s journey, and I’m committed to exploring challenges and celebrating strengths alongside you. I believe in going beyond talk therapy to embody change- using art, hypnotherapy, visualization, and somatic strategies.

  • Therapist

    What is your background?
    I started my career as a teacher after earning my bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary Education, and I taught for three years. During that time, I quickly realized that before students can learn, they need to feel safe, supported, and understood. That realization led me to pursue my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Buena Vista University. Since then, I’ve worked in a community mental health setting with a wide range of experience. I’m trained in EMDR therapy and specialize in trauma, with a focus on how early life experiences shape how we think, feel, and navigate the world today. I’m also someone who cares deeply about mental health not just professionally, but personally—I truly believe in the work I do. 

    Who do you work with?
    I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide range of individuals and feel especially connected to both teens and adults. My background in middle and high schools helps me relate well to adolescents, while I also really enjoy working with adults as they navigate life’s many transitions and challenges. I specialize in trauma and often work with clients who have experienced difficult or overwhelming life events. I also bring in a strong focus on the mind-body connection, helping clients better understand how their thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences all work together—and how to find more balance and peace within that.

    How do you help your clients?
    I focus on creating a space that feels warm, relaxed, and completely free of judgment—because therapy should feel like a place where you can just be yourself. My approach is person-centered, which means I meet you where you are and we move at a pace that feels right for you. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” here. I care deeply about my clients and genuinely want to support them in whatever areas of life they’re struggling with—big or small. Whether we’re processing past experiences, building coping skills, or figuring out how to get through a tough week, we’ll work through it together. I also like to incorporate goal setting so you can see the progress you’re making along the way.

    What do you do outside of work?
    Outside of work, my world really revolves around my family. I love spending time with my husband and daughter and being present for the everyday moments. I’m also a huge animal lover, so my dogs definitely get a lot of attention (probably more than they need, if we’re being honest). In my free time, you can usually find me outside in nature, doing yoga, reading, or unwinding with some reality TV—because sometimes your brain just needs a little break.

    Who would be a good fit working with you?
    You might be a good fit for working with me if you’re ready—or even just thinking about being ready—to take a step toward change. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start. I offer a space that’s both supportive and grounded, where you can feel comfortable but also gently challenged to grow. My approach blends natural, holistic healing with research-based strategies, so it works well for people who want something that feels both practical and meaningful.

  • Administrative Assistant

    Can you tell us a little about your professional background and experience? 

    I currently hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology and behavioral science with a minor in Sports Psychology. I have experience working with college-age students and children. During my time at Concordia University, I was a Resident Assistant and Resident Coordinator, and immediately after graduating, I became a First Year Coordinator for freshmen. I've been babysitting and nannying for as long as I can remember, and I've also worked at several summer camps. I'm currently studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Children and Adolescents through Capella University. 

    Who do you support at Lighthouse Counseling? How do you help clients and the team? 

    I support both therapists and clients at Lighthouse Counseling by providing scheduling assistance, following up on insurance claims, and making or answering phone calls and emails from anyone with questions about Lighthouse Counseling. 

    What role do you play in making clients feel welcomed and supported? 

    I greet people with a smile and ensure their scheduling process is as smooth as possible. I want clients to know I'll support them from beginning to end throughout this process by checking in, offering a smile, and lending a listening ear. 

    What are some of your hobbies or interests outside the office? 

    I love learning new crafts (currently making a scrapbook), drinking coffee from new coffee shops, and staying active by training for a marathon in October! Family is very important to me, and I love spending time with my nieces and nephews. 

    What do you enjoy most about supporting clients and being part of the Lighthouse Counseling team? 

    Seeing the impact you can make on someone's day by just showing up with a positive attitude will always fill up my bucket! The Lighthouse Counseling team welcomed me with such contagious joy and thankfulness that I want to share that feeling with every client who comes my way!