Saint Mary’s University, Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, 2014
Metropolitan State University, Bachelor of Arts in Alcohol and Drug Counseling, 2010
Professional Associations
Minnesota Association of Resources for Recovery and Chemical Health
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
EMDR International Association
Pet Partners Therapy Animals
North Star Therapy Animals
Professional Experience
Trained in DBT at DBT Associates
Discernment Training at Doherty Relationship Institute
Gottman Methods Couples Therapy Completed Level 1 and 2 Training
Trauma Focused- CBT at Institute of Behavioral Science University of Colorado, Boulder
Nationally Certified TF-CBT therapist
EMDR Certified Through EMDRIA
Certified Grief and Loss Therapist-Certified through David Kessler Training 2023
Oliver, a Merele Aussiedoodle, cross between Australian Shephard and Standard Poodle. Both breeds used to create the Aussiedoodle are considered to be canine Eisteins, making them one super smart cross-breed. He is non shedding and very few people are allergic to this breed. He is one of the 4 legged members of Julie’s family. He is sweet, loving, loyal, and smart dog.
Oliver and Julie completed a rigorous training to become a therapy dog team and was certified by Pet Partners in 2019. He now works with Julie weekly at SBH, providing emotional support to clients and the team at SBH
Oliver splits his time between his naps at the office, visiting with patients and staff, and time at home.
What Is Animal-Assisted Therapy?
Animal-assisted therapy is a therapeutic intervention that incorporates animals, such as horses, dogs, cats, pigs, and birds, into the treatment plan. It is used to enhance and complement the benefits of traditional therapy.
When It’s Used
Animal-assisted therapy can be a useful intervention for individuals or groups. A meta-analysis of 49 studies reporting on animal-assisted therapy found positive outcomes and overall improved emotional well-being in those with autism, medical conditions, or behavioral issues. Another review of randomized, controlled studies found that animal-assisted therapy can be helpful for those battling illnesses like depression, schizophrenia, or addiction. Anyone who dislikes or fears animals or is allergic to them, is not a likely candidate for this particular intervention.
How It Works
Animals can provide a sense of calm, comfort, or safety and divert attention away from a stressful situation and toward one that provides pleasure. Advocates of animal-assisted therapy say that developing a bond with an animal can help people develop a better sense of self-worth and trust, stabilize their emotions, and improve their communication, self-regulation, and socialization skills.
Hobbies
Traveling and spending time with her co-therapist, Oliver the Aussiedoodle. She and Oliver are certified
as a therapy animal team.
Quote
“A healer does not heal you. A healer is someone who holds space for you while you awaken your inner
healer, so you may heal yourself.” – Maryam Hasnaa