We all run up against challenges and struggles in our lives – internal, external, alone, in relationship, in community. Sometimes we manage through these struggles with our current coping skills, resources and supports that we have developed throughout our lives. There are also times when those skills and resources are no longer sufficient or helpful as they once were.

Do you want to explore new or different ways to navigate the challenges that present themselves in your life now? Perhaps a significant person in your life has died or maybe you have had an expected or unexpected job loss, pet loss, relationship end or you have past or current trauma. Whatever that challenge is for you, I would like to be there in a compassionate, respectful and caring way as you find ways to move forward that will fit for you.

My approach to counseling is very person-centered and narrative in nature. You have stories to tell. I want to hear and listen to them. You know what you need and want. My hope is that in working with you in a collaborative, compassionate way, together we can unearth and find what will best support you to move forward. I am eclectic and integrative in style.

Perhaps we need to look together through the lens of compassion-focused therapy or grief therapy, holistic therapy or strength-based therapy. I also work from a very strong belief in the mind-body-emotion connection – our struggles emotionally impact us mentally, physically, relationally, and spiritually as whole human beings. We also interact constantly with our environment, society and culture in ways that impact us as well. All of these different facets and more can be looked at as we work together.

In addition, I love offering and facilitating groups, including groups built around the work of Dr. Brené Brown, Mind-Body Skills groups and grief support and education groups.

I grew up in the Rochester NY area and moved to the Northern Virginia area after graduating. I lived and worked in the DC area first as a paralegal at a law firm and then, after experiencing the deaths of two sons shortly after their births, I went on to complete my MSW work and become a licensed as a social worker. After living in the east for many years, my spouse Suzanne and I moved to Tucson AZ in 2011.