About Virginia
“It's a joy to be hidden, and a disaster not to be found.” — D.W. Winnicott
I love working on identity exploration, integrating all the pieces that complete your authentic self. Together, we’ll explore where you feel stuck in relational patterns, what influences your sense of self, how to resolve sources of environmental stress and inner criticism… and just generally raising up your self-worth.
I specialize in adoptee-centered and LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy for young adults. I have extensive training in working on the life transitions, self-doubts, self-expression, identity discovery, and shifts in family relationships that occur throughout our 20s and 30s.
As an adopted individual myself, I combine deep personal understanding with extensive clinical knowledge to address our unique challenges as adoptees related to preverbal trauma, identity, belonging, and clarity.
My style is warm, casual and authentic. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from internal family systems, attachment, neuroscience, and CPTSD/ACEs/trauma-informed therapy, while centering my clients’ lived experience.
With a background in organizational psychology focused on consulting and recruiting, I spent years learning to tap into how others view themselves. I regularly assisted people in reframing and deepening their relationships with self-worth, family, culture, habits, and belonging.
Integrated Approach
In addition to my clinical licensing, I also pursued multiple trainings in restorative & resistance fitness. These experiences continue to inform my integrated approach towards mental health and well-being.
Montana Roots
Growing up in Texas, I was introduced to Montana as my mother’s and grandparents’ home state. I am grateful to have made Bozeman home with my partner and our three (yes, three) big dogs. You can catch us and our dogs hiking, skiing, camping, and on other various (mis)adventures.
Therapeutic Experience
Clinical counseling
Marriage & family therapy
Community mental health clinics
LGBTQIA+ Resource Centers
Private practice
Nature-based retreats
Education/Certifications
2020
Emotionally-Focused Therapy
Core Skills 1-4 with Gail Palmer & Robin Blake
2019
Emotionally-Focused Therapy Externship
with George Faller
2018
Sex positive therapy training
Center for Healthy Sex in Los Angeles, CA
2017
Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) & Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) courses
Southern California Counseling Center
2015
M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology
Southern Methodist University
Dual LMFT & LCPC track with specialized training & a 1.5 year internship in LGBQIA2+, transgender and non-binary Affirmative Therapy at the LGBT Resource Center.
2010
M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Seattle Pacific University