About

A little about me

I have taken a non-traditional path to becoming a counselor. I believe it is never too late to change what you do, never too late to find your passion. I have worked in the service industry, health care, and some pretty quirky side trips. It has all contributed to who I am as person and as a therapist. Each career has offered me distinctive experiences and helped give me some unique perspectives. It has always been my greatest joy to work with people and help them navigate this, “thing called life” in whatever capacity I am able.

I have spent time as an intern chaplain providing grief and trauma counseling. While my time in that role was one I cherish, being of a religious nature some are concerned or feel I may judge them. In fact, it is quite the opposite; it gave me a new understanding and appreciation to accept everyone for who they are and not what they practice. Your beliefs are important to me no matter what they are. I will not force my beliefs or practices on you, nor will I ever judge you.

Period.

I have completed advanced training to become an ADHD-Certified Clinical
Services Provider. What this means: I can conduct formal assessment and diagnosis for
people questioning if they have ADHD or not. A separate service I offer is for
assessment only which involves only 2-3 sessions. The first session is an in-depth
formal assessment and intake process which will help me to determine if you have
ADHD. The second session I will provide you with the results and if it is determined you
have ADHD, I will help you to better understand ADHD. I do not bill insurance for this
service however can provide documentation for you to submit it on your own. My ADHD
program includes communication with your PCP or prescriber to support further steps
you and your provider may choose to take.

Fun facts

I love water; I love the ocean, deep and quiet lakes, bubbling creeks, raging rivers, being on or in the water in whatever form possible. Kayaking, boating, swimming, scuba, or snorkeling are some of my hobbies.

I believe in the power of healing through nature, look up Shinrin Yoku… better yet. I will include a link. It is a Japanese practice involving mindfulness, breathing, unplugging from technology, and being present in nature. If you have been in my office, you know I love trees.

https://themindfultourist.net/2019/06/24/how-to-forest-bathe-on-your-own/

I love my family. I am extremely proud of them and am very private about them, but I am a mother, sister, wife, and daughter. My family has helped shape who I am, the good, the painful, the beautiful. They give me strength, humor, and when I need it, grounding.

In January I completed an intensive Grief Educator certification under the instruction of David Kessler, renowned author and grief expert. Grief is a journey we all will face at some level. While it is not something most of us are comfortable with, learning how to manage the challenges and treat ourselves with kindness as we process the loss can lessen the burden.