About Me
I, too, have been on my own personal path of healing, self-awareness, and practicing deeper, more open-hearted listening. I do not claim to have all the answers, but I know that you will find them within as we explore together. Authenticity is important to me, so I teach only what I know from my own experience and practice in my own daily life. I have found that the most effective therapy begins with curiosity, and is focused on desired solutions, not just the present problem. My intention is to empower women, men and children to reach their highest potential, learning to trust in the basic goodness within themselves.
I have developed my own blended style of counseling which is based on the IFS model (Internal Family Systems Therapy). My adjunct training includes a unique set of complementary skills in the areas of nutrition, yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques. These are VERY helpful health components which effectively complement traditional mental health treatment. When these practices are used, they will help you or your child maintain emotional and behavioral balance. Please refer to my "Services" page for more details.
My professional goal is to offer you support and an opportunity to grow into your best self. I will invite you to be more aware of your internal thoughts and beliefs and how these impact your daily life. As you learn to practice new thoughts and behaviors, you will discover ways to relieve suffering, and create balance between your heart-mind-body. You will find that I am respectful of your abilities and strengths, accepting of who you
really
are, and optimistic about your future! With compassion and understanding, I will do my best to listen, support and guide you toward what YOU want to achieve.
On a personal level, I am happily married and have 2 adult children (and a few pets). I love to exercise, and maintain a daily yoga/meditation practice. I enjoy gardening, playing tennis, reading non-fiction, and being out in nature. Before I became a clinical counselor, I was "counseling" as a teacher, and speech therapist, and gained years of experience presenting various trainings at local schools, churches and parent groups. In my spare time, I am an assistant trainer for therapists who are learning the Internal Family Systems Therapy model. I also lead women's workshops and weekend retreats for personal growth and spiritual alignment.
... I know from experience, that life can keep getting better. Just don't give up.
Education:
- M.S.- Un. of Denver - Speech Pathology and Communication Disorders
- M.A.- Canisius College, Buffalo, NY - Counseling Education
License, Certifications & Awards:
- NY Licensed Mental Health Counselor #003416
- Level-3 Certified IFS (Internal Family Systems) Therapist
-
Awarded
1996 "Citizen of the Year" by the National Association of
Social Workers
Additional Training :
- 200+ hours training in play and sandtray therapy
- NY State Office of Mental Health training in "Cognitive-Behavioal Therapy" for depression and trauma
- "Lifeforce Yoga" for depression and anxiety
- Shambhala and Insight Meditation- Level V
- Advanced Reiki - Level 3
Professional Activities and Memberships:
- Chi Sigma Iota Professional Honor Society for Professional Excellence International
- American Counseling Association
- NY State Mental Health Counselors Association
- Program Assistant for IFS Trainings