Amanda earned her Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of North Dakota in 2008 and graduated from North Dakota State University with a Master’s Degree in Counseling in 2013. Amanda also attended Valley City State University to earn a graduate certificate in English Language Learners.
She currently is an LAPC in North Dakota and a LPC in Minnesota.
Prior to becoming a mental health counselor, Amanda worked for 14 years in the K-12 education system. She served students first as an educator and then as a school counselor at the high school, middle school, and elementary school levels. Amanda is passionate about play therapy and the healing power that our natural resources can provide through ecotherapy.
Amanda enjoys spreading the message of hope and resiliency to communities across the country as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor.
Counseling Approach and Clinical Focus:
Amanda takes a person-centered and strengths-based approach to counseling while using techniques from play therapy, ecotherapy, TF-CBT, solution-focused therapy, and narrative therapy.
Amanda has been trained in Sources of Strength and has a background in serving individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. Amanda works with all ages, and provides individual, family, and couples counseling.
A message from Amanda:
Counseling provides a safe space for hope to grow. I believe that every person is the author of their own story and healing can happen as we navigate the writing and rewriting of our story. It is a privilege for me to support you along your journey.
Education:
Master of Science Degree in Counseling, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND
North Dakota Board of Counseling Examiners
Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy
Association of Play Therapy
American Counseling Association