I decided to become a counselor as a public school teacher. I excelled in this career and enjoyed it, but I wanted something different after fourteen years. I wanted to be able to help people in a different way. I felt that I could use my own personal challenges and growth to help others live their lives in a healthier and happier way. I began to work on my education and credentials.

I work best with clients who are searching for a better life and either have the courage or want to build the courage to make change. Change is difficult, but becomes easier if someone is there to validate, encourage, and guide.

I am excited to work with any client who is open to trying new and healthier ways of coping, living, relating to others.

I wish all clients knew that they are not at fault for having mental health challenges or substance abuse challenges, but they do have the responsibility to themselves and to the important people in their lives to address these challenges by seeking out the help that is needed to meet these challenges.

Thriveworks was recommended to me by a former coworker who now happily works there. I was drawn to the practice by the Thriveworks mission statement to be America’s most valued mental health care company, where our teams can fulfill their purpose and do their best work, where clients are treated with warmth and respect, and where communities benefit from access to high-quality care to heal and thrive in life. Thriveworks provides flexible work scheduling which includes both in-person and online sessions to accommodate both clinicians and clients. Thriveworks provides clinicians with clinical support and supports clinicians in achieving a good work-life balance.

I have always been inspired by the beauty that is around us every day. As a youth I became passionate about the progress I could make at the piano, recreating some of the great composers' works and connecting with them on an emotional level. It is equally inspiring to be able to connect with a person and be able to witness and share their unique human experience.

The first session will involve getting acquainted with each other. I will ask you about your concerns, needs, and preferences for counseling treatment. I will ask the required interview questions to complete a psychosocial history. Together we will identify some initial goals. You will have an opportunity to ask questions of me that you may have about the counseling process and how we will work together to achieve your identified goals for treatment.

I want to help the individual feel safe and comfortable. I want to put the client at ease. Gathering enough information to develop an initial picture of what brought the client into counseling and beginning a plan for therapy is important. I want to know what is important to the client.

I enjoy time outdoors including long walks, hikes, travelling to see new places. Music and art have always been a big part of my life, so I enjoy museums, galleries, concerts, music venues of all types. I play the piano and sing. Sports are a part of my time off. I like to attend basketball and football games and professional tennis matches. Spending time with family is very important to me.

It is important to me to continue spiritual growth throughout my life. I want to be the best person that I can be and the best counselor that I can be. The love and connection I feel for my friends and family members sustains my life.