I started my counseling practice for many reasons, the foremost being my love of authentically connecting with people.
My love of people and listening to others’ life stories began in my professional career, while working in human resources. At a fairly early age, and under the mentorship of several seasoned professionals, I began conducting employee interviews. I quickly fell in love with learning about different people, cultures, and experiences. I discovered the joy of our connectedness through the collective human experience, and that we all have a story to tell. The seed had been planted.
My professional career path, prior to starting my therapy practice, began in several small private law firms in SE Michigan, which ultimately led me to various legal administrative positions for one of the Big 3 automotive corporations, as well as other executive level administration support and sales positions. My career lasted over 20 years, and by the time 2008 rolled around, I became painfully aware that I needed to be doing more meaningful work in my day-to-day life. My desire to connect with people in deep and meaningful ways, especially during times of pain and suffering, fueled me to finally pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a therapist. I finally found my path and started my graduate studies at 40.
In 2014, I graduated from Regis University with a Master’s in Counseling degree. In 2019, I obtained my Certified Addiction Specialist license. In 2020, I obtained my Certified Hypnotherapy license, and in 2021, 1 became an EMDR trained therapist.
My clinical experience includes working with trauma and abuse survivors, supporting people through their grief and loss, life transitions, addiction, anxiety and depression. I have further clinical experience working with DOC and court mandated clients, the LGBTQI+ community, and survivors of sex trafficking.
I have a passion for working with people who struggle with shame and feelings of inadequacy. My interest in this area grew out of my personal experiences. Shame is the foundation of many dysfunctional behaviors, including addiction, violence, depression, low self-esteem, poor communication, relationship issues, suicide, and many other maladaptive ways of coping. Regardless of the origin, the result of shame is devastating. Shame is toxic and soul killing, and can lead to a deep seated self-hatred, self-sabotage, and highly destructive behavior. If your self-talk is automatically negative, self-defeating and shaming, know that I understand fully, and we can work together to facilitate the changes you want to see in your life. You deserve a life of self-compassion, kindness, and true happiness.
