About Tina

I’ve spent the last several decades weaving together a unique path. I hold a B.Sc. in Cognitive Psychology from Brown University and an M.Ed. in Advanced Mathematics Education from Portland State University. I also have many years of training in Mindful Experiential Therapy Approaches (META) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), both experiential approaches in psychotherapy.

Much of my life has unfolded outside prescribed paths. I’ve started and run several small businesses—co-founding an organic soft pretzel company in Portland, offering prenatal yoga classes and apprenticeships, and even teaching art classes for kids in my basement. All of it has taught me what it actually takes to build a life that’s my own.

Although I’ve followed many paths, the constant throughline of my work has been a deep, ongoing connection with young people. For more than forty years, I’ve worked as a teacher, tutor, and mentor. I find real joy in supporting young people as they learn and grow, and—as a parent myself—I understand how important it is for young people to have a steady, trustworthy space in which to explore who they are and begin finding their own way.

Alongside my work as a teacher, I bring experience as a somatic therapist and coach. I understand how the body, nervous system, and sense of safety affect learning, confidence, and growth, and I draw on somatic practices to support focus, resilience, and well-being. When students feel safe and supported, learning happens more naturally—and often with a sense of joy.

When I’m not working, I relish the quiet spaciousness of camping in the California desert. At home, I spend time with my sweet cat, Sophie, way too many houseplants, and lots of creative projects. I’m a foodie, so my backyard garden, my kitchen, and my dining room table are often centered around good food and close friends. It’s important to me to actively resist harmful systems by cultivating ways of living rooted in care, dignity, and justice rather than domination.