Hi, I’m Iris.

I started Centered College Counseling because I believe that finding the right college should begin with understanding the student, not the rankings, the application statistics, or what everyone else is doing.

Every student has a different story. Different interests, different strengths, different learning styles, and different ideas about what they hope their future might look like.

I believe those differences should guide the college search.

My approach combines academic insight, careful listening, thoughtful research, and practical guidance. I take the time to understand what matters to each student and family before making recommendations or developing a plan.

I want students to feel that they have a voice in their college journey, that their questions are welcome, and that they can explore possibilities without feeling pressured to fit someone else's definition of success.

How I think about college counseling

I don't believe that the best college is necessarily the most recognizable name or the school with the most impressive statistics.

The right college is one where a student can see themselves participating, learning, contributing, and growing.

That means looking beyond admissions requirements to consider the full experience:

• What academic programs and opportunities are available?

• Does the college offer the right balance of challenge and support?

• What does campus life actually feel like?

• Are there opportunities to explore interests and discover new ones?

• Does the environment support the student's learning preferences and personal goals?

• Is the college a realistic financial consideration for the family?

These questions help create a more meaningful college search.

What you can expect when working with me

I believe in being approachable, organized, honest, and invested in the students I work with.

I provide structure when the process feels complicated, perspective when there are too many choices, and encouragement when students are unsure how to move forward.

I also understand that parents are an important part of this experience. My goal is to help families communicate, understand the process, and support their students while allowing them to take increasing ownership of their decisions.

My philosophy and background

I hold a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from the University of Washington and an M.S. in Communicative Disorders from NYU. I am an Associate Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), the leading professional organization for independent educational consultants, and a graduate of IECA’s Summer Training Institute. I am also an active member of PNACAC, the Pacific Northwest’s regional college admissions association.

My background in cognitive psychology and speech language pathology shapes the way I approach this work and how I think about learning, motivation, decision-making, and the environments in which students thrive. It is a privilege to guide students and families through this important transition and help each student find a college where they can feel challenged, supported, and at home.

College admissions is not about creating a perfect applicant or manufacturing an impressive story.

It's about helping students recognize their own strengths, articulate their experiences, and find educational environments where they have the opportunity to thrive.

That's what I want Centered College Counseling to represent.

A more intentional college search. A more confident student. A path that feels like their own.