Seasoned healthcare professional for 20+ years

I began working in healthcare in 2004 as a care aide for severely disabled adults, and have brought that approach of respecting dignity and compassion into all of my work that has followed. Prior to that, I was a camp counselor for many years, often with special needs kids. Whether working as a clinician or executive, I have always endeavored to treat every person I encounter with kindness and respect. I love to find out what lights people up and help them bring more of that into their lives. Over twenty years in, I find this curiosity is what sustains me the most.

This isn’t my first rodeo. I’ve been yelled at, I’ve been punched, I’ve been told that good ideas aren’t going to happen. Despite best efforts, patients have died on my watch. I’ve led teams through impossible challenges. I’ve sat with people in their darkest moments and together we have found a path forward. Thousands of patients have trusted me with their stories. I have struggled to make sense of broken systems. I have grappled with moral injury, burnout, and depression. Despite these challenges, I am grateful to be part of this amazing profession. I have great respect for anyone working in healthcare right now. I love helping people who help people.

Credentials (WA State):

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

Mental Health Professional

Child Mental Health Specialist

Developmental Disabilities Mental Health Specialist

Education:

Master of Social Work, University of Washington

Bachelor of Arts, The Evergreen State College

Experience:

Clinical Director, Gemini Clinical Institute (2021-Present)

Director of Behavioral Health & Wellness - Premera Blue Cross’ Kinwell Health. (2022-2024)

Sr. Clinical Manager - Providence Swedish (2016-2021)

Medical Staff, Swedish Medical Center - Seattle (2016-2023)

Prior experience included primary care behavioral health consultant, director of two Medicaid long term care programs for people with developmental disabilities, clinical supervisor in community mental health, and psychotherapist in several private clinics.