Hi! I’m MacKenzie

"An arrow can only be shot by pulling it backward. So when life is dragging you back with difficulties, it means that it’s going to launch you into something great. So just focus, and keep aiming."

— Paulo Coelho

Finding the right therapist can feel like it takes forever.

Finding someone who gets you and is going to support you in the ways that you need is huge in this journey.

You’re not just coming into my office with some little stuff. You’re bringing me ALL your shit. So you need someone who is going to be your cheerleader, but also call you out (gently) on your bullshit thinking.

I hear this loud and clear.

This page is specifically designed to help you get to know me and the space you’re coming to.

When you walk into my office I want you to feel comfortable - emotionally and physically. Grab a hot or cold beverage and a snack if you need one. I've got free Wi-fi if you want to scroll through social media before your session. The couch is comfy and I have a blanket if you're cold or just need some comfort. And I've got plenty of tissues if you need them...trust me, you'll need them.

I want you to feel supported while you're on this journey - you're not doing it alone. 

Let’s get started. 

First of all, I am NOT your typical psychotherapist.

I'm pretty casual. I wear jeans and the occasional t-shirt to the office. Makeup went out the window when Covid hit. I have a dry sense of humor and sarcasm is my second language.

I like to sprinkle "fuck" into my everyday vocab like little bits of colorful confetti. Feel free to add to the fun.

I believe that life is short and no one has time for beating around the bush. Therefore, I don’t sugar coat things, but I also won't force you to take steps you're not ready for.

I love working with people who want to do the work.

The people I work best with prioritize their sessions. You block out your session time on your calendar so nothing gets in the way of our time together (I realize some things can't be avoided).

My ideal clients understand that their session does not come with a crystal ball or things getting better magically overnight. Even when the work is hard, you're committed to doing it because you know that things have to change.

Change takes time.

I can't do the work for you, but I will walk beside you every step of the way. 

This work is important.

YOU are important.

My Specialties

Aside from the traditional talk therapy style of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I also practice Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. Just because we have a thought doesn't mean we have to engage with it. I teach my clients relaxation and imagery techniques to help them manage their anxiety and depression.

I have received training in EMDR. Simply put, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a cutting-edge therapy that helps you process and change how you think and feel about an event that has happened. It doesn’t have to be a big event, it can be something you don’t even remember. Whatever happened most likely left you thinking something negative about yourself, the event and the world.
Learn more about EMDR.

I offer Intensive EMDR Therapy sessions, which are 3 hour sessions over 1-3 days in which we identify and process situations that are impacting our lives negatively. It's deeper work, faster. Intensives give us the chance to process multiple targets/memories/feelings that traditional 45-55 minute sessions don't.

I am also an approved provider of Maternal Mental Health using the Heartland Protocol approved by PSI. I love helping Moms navigate this thing called Motherhood. For many mamas, this is "supposed" to be a time you've waited for all of your lives and a time that brings you joy. But sometimes getting pregnant can be a process in itself. Many women struggle with fertility issues of their own or that of their spouse. Other times, the birth plan didn't go as...well, planned. And despite this little bundle of joy you have in your arms, you've got some feelings about that. Rightfully so. Whatever stage of this journey you're on, you don't need to go through it alone and without support.

Education and Background

I studied Family & Consumer Sciences at University of Northern Iowa. I graduated in 2000.

I received my Masters in Social Work at Saint Louis University in 2002.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Arizona. I offer In-person sessions in Missouri and Telehealth services in both states. 

Missouri License # 2005025550

Arizona License #LCSW-19503

My past jobs have included residential care for adolescents, community based mental health, insurance, elder care and Hospice. I opened my part-time private practice in 2007. Life took me in other directions until 2017 when I returned to private practice full-time.

I loved all of those experiences for various reasons. Some more than others, not gonna lie. The bright side is they all brought me here to do this work with you. 

I keep a smaller caseload so I don't get burned out. I want to offer my clients the best services by giving you my complete attention. Because of this, my availability also books up quickly.

Don’t wait. Book your free 20 minute consultation today so we can get started.