I am excited to be returning to Pierre and joining the team at Rising Hope Counseling.

Over the past several years, I have been honored to reside on and provide mental

health services on the Hunkpati Oyate (Crow Creek Indian Reservation) and Sicangu

Oyate (Rosebud Indian Reservation) with children, adults, couples, and families.

My personal and professional experiences there and elsewhere have influenced and

developed my passion to work with individuals and families, while providing healing in a

strengths-based approach through empowerment, support, and evidence-based

practice. My journey as a clinical social worker has continued to show me the strength,

resiliency, and determination of the human race.

I was born and raised in South Dakota. I have lived in other locations across the United

States, but my heart always comes back to South Dakota and particularly working with

the Native American population. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts Degree from the

University of South Dakota. I obtained my Master’s Degree in Social Work at the

University of Kansas. I have experience in Sand Tray Therapy, Play Therapy, In-Vivo

Exposure Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-

Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.

I am most passionate in working with survivors of trauma. We go through hardships in

life. Some of these traumas shake our spirit, and they can break our hearts. I have an

extensive history in working with survivors of rape, sexual abuse, domestic violence,

and emotional abuse. What happens to us in childhood shapes us, but it does not need

to define us. In addition, I have worked with individuals struggling with effects of trauma,

depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal ideation, bullying, grief and loss, marital challenges,

anger management, parenting struggles, and addiction.

The clinical approach that I use depends on what you need. My approach is client-

centered, solution-focused, and evidence-based. I look at the “whole” person, mind,

body, spirit; while incorporating various types of healing.

About me: I am a lover of pugs! My hobbies include spending time with friends and

family, playing softball, snowboarding, painting, photography, hiking, traveling, attending

wacipi’s, and exploring South Dakota.

Call 494-1500 if interested in making an appointment!!