Meet Amanda
I grew up in Rockford, Illinois, attended The Ohio State University for undergraduate studies, and eventually migrated to Texas for law school. I practiced law in Texas for 19 years, and during my first career I attended St. Edward’s University to obtain my MA in Counseling. As a working mother, I try to approach life with a sense of humor and acceptance of some level of controlled chaos. I am a Korean adoptee and an adoptive mother, which fuel my interest in working with adoption and attachment dynamics. I am divorced and happily co-parenting and have a passion for working with couples to understand each other’s capacity and needs, as well as communicate effectively in co-parenting situations.
Education and Training
- The Ohio State University, B.A, Classics
- The University of Texas School of Law, JD
- St. Edward’s University, MA in Counseling
- LPC Texas License No. 83710
- Discernment Counseling Training
- Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner
- EMDR Basic Training
- Completed Levels 1 and 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
- Completed IFS Online Circle: Foundations of the IFS Model Training by Dr. Richard Schwartz, Toni Herbine-Blank, and Pamela Krause
My passions
I specialize in working with individuals who are adopted, those exploring identity issues, lawyers, couples, and parents who are fostering or adopting children.
01.
Client-Centered Approach
I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and self-discovery. My client-centered approach ensures that each individual’s unique experiences, perspectives, and goals are valued and incorporated into the therapeutic process. By placing you at the center of your own healing journey, my goal is to cultivate a sense of empowerment and ownership in the therapeutic relationship.
02.
Specialized Expertise
With a specialized focus on individuals who are adopted, those grappling with identity issues, couples, individuals and couples looking to foster or adopt children, and lawyers, I have developed expertise in these specific areas. I have undergone extensive couples and somatic training. Through my own personal therapeutic work, I am also constantly learning more about myself and how that informs my work.
03.
Safe and Warm Environment
I understand the importance of creating a safe and warm environment for therapeutic growth. I endeavor to create a welcoming and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their core beliefs and relationships with trust and openness. By fostering a sense of safety, I encourage vulnerability and authentic self-expression.
04.
Trauma-Informed Approach
With a trauma-informed approach, I recognize the impact that past experiences can have on mental health and well-being. Through my Somatic Experiencing® and EMDR training, I am able to effectively create containment for clients to process and heal from trauma, moving at an appropriate speed.
05.
Collaborative Process
I view therapy as a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. Together, we will work towards identifying and addressing core challenges, exploring patterns and behaviors, and developing effective coping strategies.
06.
Compassionate Guidance
I offer empathetic and non-judgmental support, creating a safe space for vulnerability and personal exploration. Through compassionate guidance, I would like to help clients navigate their challenges, gain insights, and find what is meaning-making for them.
