My Education and Training

I completed my Master's of Social Work through the University of Washington in March 2021. My focus was on health and mental health integration, where I learned to support a client's mental health while considering external factors and physical needs. 

I have completed additional in-depth training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in 2021 and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in 2024.

My Approach

My approach is to utilize collaboration, compassion, and curiosity as often as possible to cater your therapy experience to you. Whether you're navigating exploring identity, depression, anxiety, or life transitions, I aim to help you explore what's important to you and move toward living as a more authentic and grounded person. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent-affirming, and I love working with people seeking deeper connection, authenticity, and alignment with their values. 

In our work together, we'll explore patterns that no longer serve you, build practical skills for managing life's stressors, and approach challenges from fresh, empowering perspectives. I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with a person-centered lens, always grounded in anti-oppression values, queer and feminist theory, and a strong belief in your capacity for growth.

Therapy is most effective when it honors the complexity of who you are, including the impact of your lived experiences, identities, and the broader systems we all move through. I also welcome collaborating with other supports, including, but not limited to, your family, doctors, teachers, or other folks you might benefit from having engaged in your care.  

An individual session with me varies depending on your therapeutic needs and preferences. Some clients like to take the lead and identify what we will work on for that hour, while others ask that I take a more directive or skills-focused approach. I regularly check in about how you are experiencing our work together and hope to build a relationship where you can give me feedback so we can adjust to your needs. 

More About Me

I love spending time outside! Whether walking my rescue dog Kona, paddle boarding on Lake Washington or playing in the garden, I find so much joy in being in nature. When I want to spend more time inside, I love cozying up with a cup of tea, playing guitar, sewing, or getting lost in a good fiction novel. Let me know if there is a story that changed your life. I'm always open to a good recommendation!

What to Expect in an Initial Consultation With Justine

I am happy to do consultations with teens/young adults, their caregiver(s), or both–whatever makes the most sense for you and your family! During our 15-minute consultation call, I'll ask what your goals are for therapy if you've been to therapy before, and what you found helpful or not so helpful. I'll also want to get to know a bit about you and your interests. I may also ask some questions about specific risk behaviors to ensure that traditional outpatient therapy fits your needs. I'll then tell you a bit more about me and my approach and answer any questions you may have. If we both feel like it's a good potential fit, we can schedule our first appointment!