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My journey to becoming a therapist started in 1995, when I entered the Shoreline nursing program. It did not take me long to discover that I wanted to connect with people, and help them, at a much deeper level than I was able to as a registered nurse. I observed people who were hurting and struggling to cope with pain, or addiction, or the loss of a loved one, or the loss of their health. Although medication and procedures helped at times, there were times it was sadly lacking. I eventually went back to school and got a bachelor’s degree in social work so that I could help people get the resources they needed. I worked as a case manager serving children and adults for over 5 years. I served as a therapeutic foster-parent for 5 more.  Along the way, I came to realize that I really wanted to help people gain practical skills that would help them navigate the storms of life and ease their pain, so I went back to school once more and got a master’s degree in counseling. I have been a counselor now for 5 very rewarding years. I’m looking forward to many, many more!

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My philosophy is one of a fellow traveler on the journey of life. I believe that part of the human condition is that we all, at times, experience difficulties. And although I cannot promise to remove and protect against all suffering, I can offer support while you share your story. I will show you how thoughts and feelings, and behaviors are all connected, and how sometimes, we inadvertently create our own suffering, and I will teach you lifelong skills that you can use to manage your moods, improve your relationships, and solve problems more effectively.  I see my role as a teacher, a coach, an accountability partner, and an encourager along the way. Welcome!