Hi, my name is Dawn. I am a pastoral therapist who provides support for those feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure why they react the way they do. I’m here to help you make sense of your experiences and move toward greater freedom and clarity, whether you’re navigating trauma, relationship challenges, questions of identity, or struggles connected to faith. I work with individuals, couples, families, adults, and teens. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, creating a safe and welcoming space where you can show up as you are.

I know that even the most driven people can feel unable to move forward, especially when trauma, abuse, or dehumanizing messages have shaped their story. You might notice your body shutting down in response to certain triggers, or feel stuck in patterns you do not fully understand. I’ve been there, and I believe freedom is possible. Together, we will explore your story, understand how it is impacting your present, and build practical tools that support meaningful change based on your preferences and needs. My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and practical, with a focus on reducing shame, increasing understanding, and helping you move forward with confidence.

I bring a deep understanding of how spiritual life and emotional health intersect. If faith is part of your story, whether it has been a source of strength, confusion, or pain, we can engage it honestly and without pressure. I create space to explore questions around God, church, identity, and belief, and spiritual direction can be integrated into our work if that is something you are seeking. I also draw from training in trauma-informed care, the Gottman Method for couples, ADHD, mindfulness, self-compassion, positive psychology, and suicide prevention.

A little about me -- I value deep conversations, meaningful relationships, and creating spaces where people feel seen and understood. I have spent over 20 years in ministry and leadership, which shapes how I show up with curiosity, compassion, and respect for each person’s story. I am especially drawn to conversations about faith, human behavior, and what it means to live an authentic, integrated life. Outside of my work, I enjoy sci-fi, being near the ocean, getting lost in a good book, and spending time with my family playing board games and working on puzzles.

As for my credentials and experience, I hold a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (MSMFT) from Fuller Theological Seminary and I am a member of the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). I am an ordained minister with over 20 years of ministry experience and have specialized training in trauma, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, ADHD, mindfulness, family dynamics, and the intersection of faith and mental health.
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Wherever you are in your journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you as you move toward greater freedom, connection, and a deeper sense of who you truly are.