About

I’m a genXer who’s been a practicing therapist for 18+ years, and have worked in residential, outpatient, and acute inpatient levels of care. I was Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) until 2019, and served as the New Mexico Counseling Association Ethics Chair. In 2019 I obtained my clinical social work credential (LICSW). I’ve trained numerous interns from graduate programs in New Mexico, and am licensed in the states of Hawaii, Idaho, New Mexico, and Washington. My professional life has included working with the Albuquerque Police Department, fire fighters, healthcare providers, and US military personnel.

In my previous life I was a high school STEM teacher, with an undergraduate degree in Earth Sciences and a composite minor in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. My background in education helps me to be especially effective in teaching my clients how to better manage their challenges, and my background in science helps me seek and critically select evidence-based treatments. 

I hold master's degrees in Educational Psychology, Professional Counseling, and Clinical Social Work. 

I have completed training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the Massachusetts General Hospital Psychiatry Academy, The Center for Deployment Psychology, The International Obsessive Compulsive Foundation, and Center for Body-focused Repetitive Disorders, among others.

Less egg-heady stuff:

In my spare time, I watch stand-up comedy, because laughing is important. I hike/run on trails and have completed at least 80 runs of marathon-distance or longer, including two iron-distance triathlons. I paddle. I practice doing one thing every day that scares me, including oil-painting. I’m working on aging strongly, and gracefully. 

My life philosophy can be summed up by a quote from one of my favorite movies, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty: 

To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life. 

 I might be the right therapist for you if...

You're willing to work, including practicing skills outside of session. After all, 1 hour per week with me isn't going to work miracles - you'll have homework and practice what you're learning. 

• You don’t mind the occasional f-bomb.
• You have some buy-in to therapy. Meaning, you reach out for an appointment. 
• You're willing to submit weekly tracking sheets regarding your practice. 
• You do not currently meet the criteria for the following personality disorders: Borderline, Narcissistic Histrionic, Antisocial. (These require specialized training and therapy but I’m happy to refer you!)
• You do not have an active substance abuse disorder, or have been in recovery for at least 6 months.

Looking for an OCD or anxiety treatment provider near you? 

I provide effective treatment is available via telehealth in the Seattle, Olympic Peninsula, and Surrounding areas and throughout Washington state. I also provide treatment client clients in Albuquerque, and throughout New Mexico, Hawaii, and soon: Idaho. 

 

Misty@pilgrimbehavioral.com 

call/text 505.501.8293