Fortunately, my life experiences have led me through a logical developmental process into becoming who I am today. Forty-eight years ago, I began to study child development and psychology as part of my effort to be a “good enough parent” (Winnicot, 1953). That was the beginning of my interest in the human psyche. During those years, I volunteered as a scout troop leader and teacher’s aide. I worked in Head Start and received Early Childhood Education training. Now, I have the pleasure and honor of being a grandmother of seven.

After earning a BA in Fine Art Photography, I secured a position in a girls’ boarding school teaching fine art photography and serving as a dorm parent. There I noticed that my ability to understand and connect with my students was unusual. My natural belief in the basic qualities most of us are born with combined with my positive style of teaching resulted in 95% of my students having one or more of their photographs accepted into the Scholastics yearly exhibits. Two of my students won National awards. Eventually, students began to call me the school “psychologist” because many came to me for emotional help.

This led me to return to school to work for my master’s degree. While going to school, I earned my living working in the University’s day care infant room which I recognized as another opportunity to study human beings as they began to develop! As I was working with infants, I learned more about the developing emotional mind. By doing what I love, I have developed and refined my therapeutic abilities. Formally and informally I continue to work with and study people and relationships. My fascination with people and how we grow and develop as individuals and in relationships continues. Working with people is my greatest joy.

I have now had more than 19 years of experience as a therapist conducting individual, couples, and family therapy. I quickly earned my Board Certification and became a Licensed Professional Counselor. Experience, education, daily research and continuing education keep me informed about the latest research and theories about human development, psychological health, and clinical practice, multicultural and spiritual traditions. My experience has been with all ages of clients who were struggling with a variety of problems.

I deeply believe in the individual’s ability to heal and grow stronger through good therapy. The integrity of my value system is the basis of my approach as a therapist. I lead sessions with genuine respect for and empathy with my clients, always using the ethical standards of my profession. My mission is to facilitate holistic growth and balance in individuals and their relationships.