Meet the Clinicians
Vanessa Graff
My name is Vanessa Graff. I grew up in Ridgefield, Washington where I have lived for most of my life. I have lived in several states including Idaho, Virginia, Colorado, Utah and now live back in Washington with my husband and three dogs. I enjoy crafting, spending time with my family and traveling.
I believe that each individual has unique needs and strengths and I integrate those abilities and uniqueness into the therapeutic process and treatment plan. I believe that many of us have the necessary tools to live full and healthy lives and it is my mission to assist my clients in finding their own strength in this journey.
My Approach and Education
Throughout my counseling career I have worked with varied populations such as middle school, high school and college students, adults in residential addiction treatment, LGTBQ+, homeless individuals, women utilizing a domestic violence center, children and adults experiencing grief and loss, adults completing a bridges out of poverty program and eldery individuals in assisted living. I completed a study abroad program in India focusing on women’s empowerment and working with individuals dealing with physical or mental disabilities, and orphaned children using art, music and sports in the therapeutic process. I have also spent many years working in the healthcare and emergency medical fields and assisted with establishing a mental health officer position within the police department.
Jennifer Menke
Aloha, my name is Jennifer and I reside in Oahu, HI. I’ve been living in Hawaii for a year and a half. I’m originally from the Midwest. I enjoy the beautiful landscape, sunshine and warmth of the islands. I feel renewed and refreshed being near water and enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, beaches and snorkeling. I enjoy being outdoors and exploring through hiking, island hopping, camping, road trips, walks with my dog and relaxing at the beach. I did a study abroad in India which spurred my interest in travel and exploring the culture and foods of different regions. I love Broadway musicals, movies, live music, board games, card games and BBQs with friends and family.
My Approach and Education
I believe that the counseling experience embraces compassion, empathy, respect and truly listening to the client to assist them with achieving their counseling goals. I think outside the box at times and incorporate a whole person approach drawing from strengths based, positive psychology, solution focused, person centered, cognitive behavior therapy, and trauma informed theories and practices in a non-judgemental and collaborative process. I love art and animals and believe they can be beneficial in the therapeutic process.
I obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Art Therapy in 2013. During my educational program I was able to assist with two diverse equine therapy programs. I have also incorporated aspects of art in the healing process and was fortunate enough to be a part of the McNair Scholars Program, completing a research project incorporating art therapy for veterans experiencing PTSD. I completed a MSE degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wisconsin in 2018. Throughout my counseling career I have worked with varied populations such as middle school, high school and college students, adults in residential addiction treatment, LGTBQ+, homeless individuals, women utilizing a domestic violence center, children and adults experiencing grief and loss, adults completing a bridges out of poverty program and eldery individuals in assisted living. I completed a study abroad program in India focusing on women’s empowerment and working with individuals dealing with physical or mental disabilities, and orphaned children using art, music and sports in the therapeutic process. I have also spent many years working in the healthcare and emergency medical fields and assisted with establishing a mental health officer position within the police department.
I look forward to listening to your story and walking with you through your counseling journey. Mahalo!
“If a fish is judged it’s whole life on it’s ability to climb a tree it will live it’s whole life believing That it is stupid.”
-Albert Einstein
Sierra Dorr
I moved to Hawaii post Masters to be closer to the Beach where I spend most of my time. I love the water, playing sports, and training for my first marathon!
My Approach and Education
I received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Siena College and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling from William James College. My experience includes residential homes for teenagers with social-emotional disorders and high school mental health counseling in Boston, Massachusetts, covering a diverse population of students.
I believe a trusting therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is essential to creating change. I utilize a strengths based approach, integrating positive psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, tailoring each treatment plan to the client.
I enjoy working with teens and young adults who are facing challenges such as PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and divorce.
Chris Parlin
I am a recent master’s graduate in counseling psychology from the University of San Francisco, specializing in marriage and family therapy. I entered this specific field because all people should be fully supported in their pursuit of emotional, physical, and psychological well-being.
My upbringing as a multiracial/multicultural kanaka maoli wahine on the island of Oahu, has inspired this goal of hers as she has witnessed and experienced some of the struggles that come to those who live throughout the pacific. This has instilled a passion to see my community and the overall population in Oceania thrive above all else.
Mytherapeutic approach is a mixture of culturally responsiveness, LGBTQ+ affirming, social justice-oriented integrative care. I pull from various techniques and strategies in unison with her client to strengthen the therapeutic relationship and curtail the best approach needed to support each individual in their goals.