As a former member of the LDS church, I understand the unique nuances of Mormon culture and the effect religion can have on our mental health. I personally understand how overwhelming and confusing leaving a faith can be, and how religious trauma can continue to affect you for years after. Many who go through a transition of faith experience an existential crisis. When we question or lose a long-held belief system, we lose the comfort those beliefs provided us from the existential concerns we all face in life. Such a crisis can bring about depression, anxiety, complicated relationship difficulties, and identity confusion. I provide therapy to those who are experiencing such difficulties while, or after, leaving their faith.

I also work with those who are not only struggling with the transition, but who have experienced religious trauma while in the church. This can include struggling to correct unhelpful beliefs or heal from traumatic experiences that continue to cause pain even after disaffiliating. Religious trauma is complex and difficult to overcome on your own. My experience with the unique culture of the church as well as my training in trauma-informed care can help you to move towards post-traumatic growth.

Too often I’ve heard from clients that previous therapists have attempted to push religious views on them in their therapy. This is not only unprofessional but against the ethics that govern the practice of psychology. I do not advocate for or against religion or spirituality. It is not my place, nor any therapist’s place, to do so. I advocate for developing better mental health, self-understanding, and the ability to make empowered, autonomous choices. I work with people on all sides of the wide spectrum of religious/spiritual belief. Whether you are religious, spiritual, agnostic, atheist, or ambivalent about your beliefs, you will have a safe space to do the work of therapy.

I also work with a wide variety of topics unrelated to religion. At this time about 1/3rd of my clients are ex-mormon, and often with those clients the therapy goals often transition to topics unrelated to religion. Please visit my website to learn more or reach out to me to discuss your specific goals for therapy.

While working with me, you can expect that your identities, values, and beliefs will be respected. I am a queer-allied, sex-positive therapist. I will create a safe space for you to do the difficult work of self-improvement.