Raised in Oregon, I have lived and worked in Japan for over 30 years. I now bridge two cultures and have a broad perspective on family styles, relationships, and cultural values that influence personal development. I understand what it is to be an "outsider" and also what it is to be enriched by meeting the challenges in life. I specialize in working with both males and females ages 12 and up who are facing stressful life transitions; are overwhelmed by trauma; have complicated family dynamics; or who have aging/health related issues. I use an eclectic, relational approach grounded in empathy. My goal is that clients have a deeper understanding and appreciation of their own life story and a more compassionate view of themselves and the world.