At the time (1992), I was the Marketing Director of a small-market Rock n Roll radio station. We did a lot of community resource fundraisers and I was involved with a combination homeless shelter and hotline. The work was so fulfilling for me that i decided to volunteer for the hotline. The training was very intense and at the end of my first shift, I remember laying awake for quite awhile, chastising myself for taking the roof over my head (and everything else I was and am blessed to have) for granted. That experience shifted my priorities. Eighteen months later, at the tender age of 32, I left my marketing career for graduate school.

I am excited to work with clients who are open to themselves and their own life lessons. I also enjoy providing folks who feel "stuck" in their growth, a fresh perspective, coping skills, resources, encouragement and praise. And helping them realize, when they get "UN-stuck", that they did 90% of the work themselves. 

Clients have all they need to become who they imagine themselves to be, to solve their own issues, to change and to THRIVE, on the INSIDE. Sometimes they just need a little guidance finding their TRUE selves, their voices, their mastery.

Smiles, sunsets, nature, pets, seeing hope in a client's eyes, hearing strength in their voice, the words "please" and "thank you." I am also inspired by teachers, poets, comedians, song writers, artists of every kind. Most of all, though, i am inspired by clients' stories, their struggles, triumphs, growth. Their incredible resilience.

A warm, friendly, curious welcome. My best attempt to make them feel as relaxed and at ease as they can be. An open, non- judgmental attitude, transparency, answers to any questions about me, my experience, philosophy, techniques. And a clear message that I am ready to listen.

Make them feel at ease, establish rapport, explore what brings them to therapy ("why now?"), explore their goals and expectations for therapy and give them one skill, note a strength, ask them to make at least one small change that will move them in the direction of feeling better. Seek a commitment they'll return next session.

I am friendly, easy to work with, committed to their success. I am funny, compassionate and caring. A form of caring i use may be gently challenging ineffective, or even toxic, behaviors, setting and keeping certain limits and boundaries, both for my own well- being and that of my clients.

I love gardening, both veggie and flower, photography, long walks, spending fun time with my cat, having dinner with close friends, making jewelry and other crafty stuff.

My sense of humor.